Question

Reeve has worked as an administrator with employer-sponsored health insurance at Big Company for 10 years and has been diagnosed with a serious heart condition. An offer for a great job at Up and Coming Company with great opportunities for advancement, although it pays slightly less, has been extended to Reeve. Up and Coming has health insurance, but the insurance coverage excludes any preexisting health condition for six months. Reeve says that taking the job at Up and Coming would make continuing health insurance from Big Company unaffordable. Up and Coming wants Reeve to start immediately. What would you advise Reeve to consider?

Answer 1

What would common sense tell me? To stay at Bog Company since my health is much more important than any possible great job.

The problem is simple, if Reeve quits his current job, he will not be able to afford health expenses for at least 6 months until the new employer policy kicks in. Besides the risk of dying, a serious heart condition may cost tens of thousands of $, or even more in 6 months. What is even worse, is that Reeve's starting salary in the new company is slightly lower, so he will have even less money if any health problems occur. Also, if he gets very ill, his dream job will be over. Even if they do not fire him, his chances of advancement will reduce dramatically.

Sometimes a great opportunity is not worth the risk.