your question touches upon a very important issue and one that many americans struggle with. millions of people either hang onto a job because they can't afford to lose the health insurance or go uninsured which is particularly dangerous for folks like yourself with a chronic condition. job gaps after january 1 2014 will no longer be a concern with regard to health insurance. you'll be able to buy a policy through your state's marketplace and be guaranteed coverage even with a pre-existing health condition. when you lose access to affordable coverage provided by your employer you'll be eligible to buy a plan on your own. likely you'll also qualify for financial assistance to lower your costs.
as a young adult covered under my employer's health insurance plan i worry about switching jobs and being uninsured. being uninsured for any length of time is not an option for me because of an existing chronic medical condition. what are my healthcare options if i want/need to take time off between jobs? also affordability is important here.