What is COBRA?

COBRA is an acronym for the “Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act” of 1986 that mandates temporary continuation of domestic but not worldwide medical assurance coverage in the USA by a group plan member. This is for employees and dependents of a group plan in the event of termination, retirement, and reduction in working hours of the employee etc.

The COBRA premium is much greater than the regular employee’s contribution since the employee must now pay the employer’s portion of the premium that was formerly contributed as a benefit. Continuation of benefits under COBRA usually lasts a maximum of 18 months past termination, and only applies to groups with 20 or more members.

There is no difficulty when US citizens leave the country and want to take out a worldwide medical assurance plan. The difficulty arises when US citizens return to their home country and they have picked up conditions that will be excluded when they take out a new policy. We have expert knowledge of which worldwide medical assurance plans you can take back to the USA and continue your coverage.

Our expert consultants can give you a range of quotes and more information on this and any other issues relating to worldwide medical assurance.