How important is maintaining continuous health coverage in the US? We are in Europe for 10 years on the social health system and are concerned it may be difficult to find individual coverage when we return Stateside. Is there any benefit to maintaining minimal continuous coverage in the US while we are abroad? It sufficient to have short term coverage for our trips back from time to time? Any insight? Thank you!

I would check with your European coverage to see how you are covered during travels. You may be able to purchase some supplemental insurance to cover you when you travel. Also check with your employer.

You shouldn't have trouble getting coverage when you return to the US unless there is some pre-existing health condition.