COBRA quote is huge, any alternatives? after 10 years as a home health aide

I was offered COBRA and the monthly cost is more than I expected as a home health aide. My spouse has a chronic condition, so dropping coverage feels risky. Is the decision time really that tight?

I priced both side by side: total yearly cost, doctors in network and the deductible. Marketplace was cheaper for us, but only because our doctors were covered.

Check what the notice says about the election period and when coverage starts. Mine allowed a short window to choose.