OTTUMWA, IOWA -- Republican U.S. House candidate Mariannette Miller-Meeks of Ottumwa has revealed she has no health insurance and does not plan to get any.
Miller-Meeks told The Des Moines Register her husband lost his job in July.
And while her husband's new job does offer insurance, she said she doesn't want to be on his plan.
The 55-year-old candidate said she's healthy. While she says going without insurance is not smart, she thinks health insurance needs to be made more affordable.
Miller-Meeks also said she agonized over whether to return to her ophthalmology practice or take a part-time job after her husband lost his job.
She says she didn't tell anyone, including GOP officials, about her family's financial crisis.
KTVO contacted Congressman Dave Loebsack.
He said that as the current health care system exists, insurance costs, even for COBRA, reamain high. The new health care law is set to take effect in 2014
"Everyone will have access to the very same health insurance coverage that I have. And so that's why I voted for the bill and I did vote to extend COBRA also, but I also voted for this bill because again the goal is to make sure that everyone has access to affordable and quality health care coverage, the same thing that I have."
In light of this situation, KTVO looked into the different health insurance options available for those who have lost their jobs.
KTVO talked with Kerry Koonce of the Iowa Workforce Development regarding these options.
They said the COBRA program must be offered by its former employee. It allows you to keep your insurance, but you are now responsible for paying the bill.
The Hawk-I program offers health insurance for little to no cost, but only covers your children.
They say private insurance is something to consider.
If you meet the requirements, you may qualify for Medicaid.
“If people have serious questions and concerns about how health insurance is regulated with Iowa they should get in contact with the Iowa Insurance Commission. They have a wonderful sort of help system. They can answer individual questions and get them pointed in the right directions, Koonce said.
Koonce said many prescription drug companies have programs and will work with you to help cover the costs of drugs.
Another helpful tip if you have lost your job, make sure you apply for Unemployment benefits right away.
Miller-Meeks faces a rematch with incumbent Democrat Dave Loebsack in November.
Information from: The Des Moines Register, http://www.desmoinesregister.com
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