COBRA quote is huge, any alternatives? - what worked for you?

I was offered COBRA and the monthly cost is more than I expected as a dental hygienist. I am in Kansas City, in case local advice matters. My spouse has a chronic condition, so dropping coverage feels risky. How did you decide?

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.