Q: I’ve lost my job and my health insurance but I can’t afford COBRA. Last week’s column where you gave some advice about how to lower medical costs will help me, I’m sure, but is there any way I pick up some insurance in case it’s a long time before I get a new job? — Hurting Henry

A: Dear Henry: I’m sorry about your job loss; you’re in good company these days which certainly is no consolation. The cost of health care has and continues to skyrocket and, while company employees receive the best rates and the best plans through their work, you still have a few options that could help.

1. Do you belong to a trade or professional association? Most organizations offer group plans in which their members may subscribe. Even if the benefits are far less than you’re used to, reduced-rate coverage is better than none at all.

2. Check out reliable health insurance brokers. Since the insurance companies pay their fee, you needn’t worry about any upfront funding. Go to www.nahu.org and be certain to ask prospective brokers if he or she participates with a “Big Book.” (All this means is the broker represents a whole bunch of companies and this allows you to compare lots of quotes. Choice is good!)

3. For the time being, truly alternative resources can be a godsend. For example, through the end of 2009 and following the loss of job and health insurance after March 31, Walgreens is offering free clinic visits to people who lose their jobs and health insurance, as well as free service for their spouses and children if they don’t have insurance of their own.

Within many Walgreens are “Take Care” clinics that treat respiratory problems, allergies, infections, and skin conditions, among other ailments, though prescriptions are not included in the program. Patients must present proof they are unemployed, including a federal or state unemployment determination letter and an unemployment check stub.

They have to sign a form at the clinic saying they have lost their jobs and health benefits. If they find a new job or get new health insurance, they will no longer be eligible for free care.

Walgreen said it will not offer free checkups, vaccinations or other injections because it is focusing on providing services patients might otherwise get at an urgent-care center or even an emergency room.

Medical lab operator Quest Diagnostics is participating in the program by offering free tests for step throat and urinary tract infections.

4. Along the same line, CVS’ “Minute Clinic” (and similar programs elsewhere, including many Wal-Mart locations) is a low-cost alternative to health insurance unless an emergency rears its ugly head.

If you have access to a computer — either your own, a friend’s, or at a public library — researching this subject further may lead to more assistance. I do wish you the very best of luck.

Note. If your employment was were involuntary terminated on or after Sept. 1, 2008, through Feb. 16, you may be eligible for an additional election opportunity under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. For more information, visit www.dol.gov or call 866-444-3272 to speak to a benefits adviser.)

Postscript: When I find relevant tidbits, I pass them along to readers. A “tasty” morsel to add to last week’s suggestions is to use a digital camera to perhaps save a trip to the doctor. If you’re experiencing what could be harmless bug bites, a dangerous rash, or any similar uncertainty, take a picture and e-mail it to Doc Feelgood. If he agrees to take a look at the photo, you could save yourself the expense and inconvenience of an office visit.

Ellen Phillips is a retired English teacher who has written two consumer-oriented books. Her Consumer Watch column appears on Saturdays in the Business section of the paper. An expanded version is at www.timesfreepress.com under Local Business. E-mail her at consumerwatch@timesfreepress.com