Leave that job, and by law we can continue that coverage for 18 months. After that, we're on our own. Absent retirement for disability under Social Security, Medicare coverage does not begin until age 65. If we retire earlier than that, we'll still need that medical coverage, but an individual policy will be enormously expensive. That drain on the pocketbook requires extensive research and investigation to ensure both the availability and affordability of health insurance when we retire.
Some employers allow retirees to retain group medical coverage in retirement.
A group policy available through an employer will almost certainly be the cheapest and most comprehensive insurance available, but employers do not have to provide this coverage beyond the 18 months specified in the law. Health insurance for younger retirees is a huge problem that must be addressed. In some cases, it could very well dictate a longer working career than initially desired. Be Foolish and examine this issue closely prior to making a final decision. When we reach age 65, Medicare coverage becomes available.