How do I get health coverage during a gap between jobs?

Losing job-based coverage triggers a special enrollment period, so you have several real options and shouldn't go uninsured even briefly. First, price an ACA marketplace plan — a drop in income often qualifies you for premium subsidies that beat COBRA on cost. Second, COBRA lets you keep your exact current plan for up to 18 months, useful if you're mid-treatment or want to preserve deductible progress, but you pay the full unsubsidized premium. Third, a spouse's or partner's employer plan may let you join, since job loss is a qualifying event there too. Short-term medical plans exist but offer thin coverage and often exclude pre-existing conditions — treat them as a last resort. Whatever you do, avoid a coverage gap; one accident or illness while uninsured can be financially devastating. Compare marketplace subsidies against COBRA's full cost before deciding, since many people overpay for COBRA out of habit.