Health Insurance
In January, my health insurance became inactive. I only learned this when I got billed full cost for a smear test ($350). I called the insurance company, and then I called the State. Two people tried to add me onto my husband's 'household', both times it got denied (computer says no). Many hours were spent on hold, as the people on the insurance helpline tried to figure out what was going on.
The upshot is that the changes that a certain bill has ended all subsidies for insurance, and I no longer qualify for anything. Which means my insurance has become completely unaffordable--over $600 a month for a 'catastrophic' plan, which would only kick in once I have already spent $10k on medical expenses. And over a thousand dollars a month for something equivalent to what I was on. That's more than rent in most places!
Me to the advisor on the State helpline: "So, to be insured I should find one of these plans through the marketplace?"
Her: "Well, actually, I would recommend you go into your doctor's office and talk to them first."
Outside of the cost, the worst part of this is trying to figure out what the hell is actually going on. It's not like you just look at insurance plans and compare costs/benefits and pick one. The whole thing is a Kafka-esque nightmare. The government portal through which you have to shop insurance is a broken mess. People will only speak to my husband on the phone and not to me. People (advisors!) keep telling me I am eligible for things I am not eligible for.
Them: I am going to apply to medicaid for you.
Me: I don't qualify for medicaid. I am not a US Citizen.
Them: No, but your husband is, so I can put you through as part of his household.
two attempts and three days later
Them: Oh, you're not a US Citizen, so you're not eligible.
The upshot is, I am currently uninsured, which is not ideal. I am trying to figure out what the hell I am supposed to do, other than cross my fingers for this interview on Monday to result in an offer.