 US Employers For those making the transition to the US for employment, the best
coverage typically available is the group healthcare plan through
your US employer. Typically, the larger the employer, the
better the health plan. However, as with almost any healthcare
plan in the US , be prepared to pay by cash, check or credit card
a "co-pay" for any doctor, lab, x-ray visit, etc. For those hoping to retire before age 65, you must be cognizant
of the fact you will be without healthcare once you leave your US
employer unless you are employed long enough to qualify for retiree
medical benefits. The situation is not the same as in Canada
where you automatically qualify for Provincial healthcare coverage
provided you make the monthly premium payments. There is a
government law (called COBRA) that allows you to take your employer
health insurance benefits with you for up to 18 months after you
leave as long as you take over the premium payments, which tend
to be very expensive. If you are not eligible for retiree
medical benefits, you will have to obtain an individual health insurance
policy.
|