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Real members of MyParkinsonsTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
August 16
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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

These are just a few things I looked up, and you can look into them yourself as well. Please check with your doctor first. Your doctor can document your medical condition, limitations, and why you may be unable to return to work.

Before resigning or making any final decision, talk with your employer’s human resources or benefits department. Ask when your FMLA and health coverage will end and whether the company offers short-term disability, long-term disability, or additional medical leave.

If your condition qualifies as a disability, you may be able to request reasonable accommodations. Depending on your job, that might include reduced hours, a modified schedule, working from home, different duties, or additional unpaid leave.

If you lose your work coverage, ask about COBRA. It may allow you to keep the same insurance temporarily, but it can be expensive. You may also qualify for a Marketplace insurance plan with financial assistance. Losing employer coverage normally gives you a limited Special Enrollment Period. Medicaid may be another possibility, depending on your income and where you live.

If your condition is expected to prevent you from working for at least a year, you may also want to look into Social Security Disability. The process can take time, so it is better to start asking questions early.

Again, these are only possibilities I found while looking into it. Please check everything for yourself and talk with your doctor, because good medical documentation will be very important.

August 17
MyParkinsonsTeam

That sounds really stressful, and it's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed when facing both health challenges and the worry of losing insurance coverage. You're not alone in this situation.

Here are some options worth exploring to maintain health insurance coverage if you're unable to return to work:

- COBRA — Show Full Answer

That sounds really stressful, and it's completely understandable to feel overwhelmed when facing both health challenges and the worry of losing insurance coverage. You're not alone in this situation.

Here are some options worth exploring to maintain health insurance coverage if you're unable to return to work:

- COBRA — This lets you keep your current employer's health insurance for up to 18 months after leaving a job, though you'll pay the full premium yourself, which can be costly.
- Marketplace/ACA plans — Losing job-based coverage qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period to sign up for a plan through healthcare.gov, sometimes with income-based subsidies.
- Medicaid — If your income drops significantly, you may qualify for Medicaid, which provides low or no-cost coverage.
- Medicare — If you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) due to Parkinson's, you may become eligible for Medicare after a waiting period.
- Social Security Disability (SSDI/SSI) — It's worth applying if Parkinson's is preventing you from working, as approval can open doors to other benefits.

Speaking with a social worker or patient advocate who specializes in Parkinson's can be incredibly helpful in navigating these options. Your neurologist's office may be able to connect you with one.

August 16

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