Health care costs now consume almost one-sixth of America's economy, and, during your lifetime, medical and health insurance costs are likely to be your largest or second-largest expense after housing. Your group health insurance is the No. 1 threat to your financial future.

Have you ever thought about what would happen if you became ill, lost your job and your health insurance, and couldn't get another job? Every year this happens to millions of Americans with dire consequences—and it doesn't have to be a major heart attack or cancer to lead you to the poorhouse.

Have you or a loved one ever had a medical issue requiring multiple doctor visits, laboratory tests, or hospital stays? Then you already know that behind virtually every ill person is a second person needed to transport them to and from medical appointments, get them meals, and/or explain what is happening to their medical providers. Even if you don't become ill yourself, you could still be terminated by your employer while you are performing this service for a spouse, child, or parent.