If someone is between jobs they can (usually) use COBRA to keep the same coverage they had at their last job by paying the full cost (the part the employer paid

If someone is between jobs they can (usually) use COBRA to keep the same coverage they had at their last job by paying the full cost (the part the employer paid & the part the employee paid). Since employers often pay more than half the cost, this is often expensive and also only lasts for a certain period of time (18 to 36 months, depending on the situation). They could also buy coverage on their state's healthcare exchange at whatever the market rate is - depending on the state this may or may not be affordable. If someone can't afford coverage they might qualify for Medicare. If someone is uninsured then they are liable for 100% of the bill.