Navigating Health Coverage After Job Loss

In this episode of Vitals and Voices, we tackle a topic that’s on the minds of many families in our community—especially following the recent Tyson closure announcement: health insurance coverage after job loss. What happens when you lose your job? Should you apply for Medicaid right away? What if you get denied? And what exactly is the health insurance marketplace everyone talks about? To help us answer these questions, Brenna Bartruff sits down with Sandra Carvajal, one of LRHC’s bilingual financial counselors. Sandra and her team work every day to make sure patients understand their options and get the help they need. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How LRHC’s financial counseling department supports our communityWhat to do first if you lose your job and health coverageMedicaid explained in simple terms: who qualifies and what benefits it providesWhy bilingual support matters for Spanish-speaking familiesThe difference between Medicaid and the health insurance marketplaceSpecial enrollment periods and how to avoid coverage gapsPractical steps for families feeling overwhelmedKey Questions Answered:What are the first steps to take after losing employer coverage?Can you apply for Medicaid while applying for unemployment benefits?What happens if your Medicaid application is denied?How does the 90-day window work for fixing coverage gaps?What should families look for when choosing a marketplace plan to keep care local at LRHC? Resources & How to Get Help:If you’re unsure where to start, LRHC’s financial counselors are here for you.Ways to connect: Call Family Medicine Specialists Clinic at (308) 324-8308 to schedule an appointment today.Closing Thoughts:Sandra reminds us that losing coverage doesn’t mean losing care. LRHC is committed to helping families navigate Medicaid, marketplace plans, and financial assistance options. If you found this episode helpful, please like, subscribe, and share with friends and family. Together, we can make sure everyone in our community knows about these important resources.Vitals & Voices is a podcast powered by Lexington Regional Health Center, offering meaningful health conversations that matter to you. Each episode features authentic stories and expert insights from the people behind the care — including healthcare professionals, wellness advocates, community leaders, and patients — all aimed at helping you live your healthiest, most informed life.Subscribe & Stay Connected: Follow Vitals & Voices for more health insights and practical tips to help you live well and stay connected. YouTubeApple PodcastsSpotify