Whether it's an emergency, or just a routine check-up, most of us rely on health insurance supplied by an employer.

"In the US right now, the average health care premium for insurance for a family is $12,000 per year," Jeff Williams of Public Sector Consultants said. "The average employer pays three-fourths of that premium."

But, when you lose your job, you lose that health coverage too.

"Any mass layoffs," Williams said, "whether it's in the auto industry or a large plant or factory, its just throws families, and city and local governments into some times of question."

Questions without any good answers.

Williams said former employees can get coverage with Cobra, but it'll cost you.

"When you get fired, the employee must pick up all of the $12,000," he said.

A fee too steep for many, which is why the Michigan Department of Community Health says they've gotten an influx of calls and emails on how to apply for Medicaid. But, Williams said there's only so much state money.

"You have two competing forces at a time," Williams said. "You have declining state revenue; you also have an increase in need, that puts increasing pressure on the state budget."

Add to that the possibility of one of the three automakers shutting down, or even filing for bankruptcy, and suddenly, said state representative Edward Gaffney, you have a catastrophic event.

"Anytime you have tens of thousands, let alone hundreds of thousands suddenly needing services," Williams said, "it puts an extreme burden on the state and federal systems."

A burden many say, this state just can not bear

** To apply for Medicaid call the Michigan Department of Community Health to find a location nearest you. **