From the U.S. Department of Labor website:

[quote]Is there a limit to the period of time I can go without coverage between jobs if I want to reduce the length of a preexisting condition exclusion?

Yes. The break in coverage between one period of health coverage and another can be no longer than 63 days (just over 2 months). If you are between jobs and do not have health coverage for 63 days or more, then you may lose the ability to use the coverage you had before the break to offset a preexisting condition exclusion period in a new health plan. [/quote]

About COBRA, also from the Labor Department website:
[quote]Q7: How long after a qualifying event do I have to elect COBRA coverage?

Qualified beneficiaries must be given an election period during which each qualified beneficiary may choose whether to elect COBRA coverage. Each qualified beneficiary may independently elect COBRA coverage. A covered employee or the covered employee's spouse may elect COBRA coverage on behalf of all other qualified beneficiaries. A parent or legal guardian may elect on behalf of a minor child. Qualified beneficiaries must be given at least 60 days for the election. This period is measured from the later of the coverage loss date or the date the COBRA election notice is provided by the employer or plan administrator. The election notice must be provided in person or by first class mail within 14 days after the plan administrator receives notice that a qualifying event has occurred.[/quote]
Since you have 60 days to elect COBRA once you receive formal notice that it is available, you may just want to wait and see if it is needed.

But I'd check with your state insurance office or some other unbiased (e.g. not trying to see you insurance) authority.