Can my employer terminate my Medical Benefits while I'm on Short Term Disability?

I was hospitalized from 2/25/11 - 3/31/11 for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome. I was put into a medically induced coma for 10 days & lost most of my muscles. I was incapacitated & sent to inpatient rehab for 2 weeks. I am home now & getting Physical & Occupational Therapy to regain my muscle strength. I'm also receiving STD. I pay $400+ per month for my Medical Benefits out of pocket through my employer. He contributes the remaining $100 per month. I have been employed with them since 2008. I sent a check to the company so my Medical Benefits will continue for the month of April. I wanted to pay a few months in advance but my employer said to do it month by month. He said he didn't know how long he could do this. I should be able to return to work by September 2011 (the latest) He told me he is not replacing me & will continue to outsource my work to India until I am ready to come back. My questions are: Can he deny my Medical Benefits payment? Is he required to continue to pay his portion ($100 per month)? If he does not have to pay his portion, can I pay the total amount myself? I just want to make sure he is doing the legal thing. I need my benefits now more then ever. Any help/suggestions are greatly appreciated.

0 answers  |  asked Apr 18, 2011 12:20 PM [EST]  |  applies to New York