Health insurance gap after a layoff - what worked for you?

My employer coverage ended at the end of the month and I am trying to work out what to do as a dental hygienist. The COBRA notice arrived with a very high price. How fast did coverage start?

Keep everything in writing and save the confirmation numbers. It made the follow-up calls so much easier.

Compare the monthly price with the deductible. A cheap plan with a huge deductible can cost more if you need care.