Middle-aged workers who leave their jobs have a tough time finding affordable health insurance. Just 31% of companies offer health insurance for retirees too young to receive Medicare, down from 41% in 1993. Experts suggest looking into COBRA coverage, which employers are required to offer under federal law, to extend health coverage while shopping around for an alternative plan.
See "Job Changes Can Imperil Health Coverage", Lisa Singhania, Detroit Free Press, May 6, 2001