Yep, that's why sometimes I think it's best not to give these people too much information. When I was in that situation, I did the same as you: I told the office lady that I hadn't paid my COBRA premium yet, and that the claim for my office visit might get rejected. I started to think I shouldn't have said anything, but she just looked at me funny, and took my co-pay. They weren't the brightest office staff anyway.

I think the check analogy is a good one in regard to the COBRA.

I hope things work out for your. It sounds like it's rough going right now.