Read this before you switch

Generally speaking, we believe that Medicare Supplement (also known as Medigap) Plans are the best option for most people eligible for Medicare. However, different circumstances require different solutions, and at Fair Square Medicare, we are here for you and your specific healthcare needs. Suppose you want to switch your Medicare Supplement plan. In that case, you must do so during your six-month Medigap open enrollment period or during a special circumstances period of eligibility due to guaranteed issue rights. 

What is a Medicare supplement plan?

 Medicare Supplement plans are health insurance policies that help pay for some of the out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare, such as coinsurance, copayments and deductibles. A Medicare supplement plan can provide valuable protection against rising healthcare costs. 

There are numerous different Medicare Supplement plan letters to choose from, including plans A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M and N. Each plan is standardized by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and offers different benefits. All of those plans might seem overwhelming, but the simple answer is that you should probably be on Plan G (or Plan N in some states).

What are the benefits of a Medicare Supplement plan?

Depending on the type of plan you choose, Medicare Supplement plans can offer many benefits. 

These include:

• Comprehensively cover some of the out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare, such as coinsurance, copayments and deductibles. 

• Offer predictable and affordable premiums. 

• Provide generous coverage for medical bills. 

• Allow you to see any provider that accepts Medicare assignment (in other words, they accept what Medicare pays). 

• Can be used both domestically and abroad under certain circumstances. 

Overall, a Medicare Supplement plan can help reduce your risk of incurring expensive out-of-pocket costs associated with plans that don't offer as much coverage.

When can you change your Medicare Supplement plan?

You may switch your Medicare Supplement plan during the six-month Medigap open enrollment period. The timing of the open enrollment period is a unique to your Medicare start date. If your coverage starts on July 1st, then your open enrollment period starts that day, and continues for six months, until December 31st. During this time you have an opportunity to join any Medicare Supplement plan available in your area. 

The other way to change your Medicare Supplement plan is to receive guaranteed issue rights through a specific circumstance. Different states have different rules for what is considered a special circumstance. Here are some common examples: 

• You move out of the plan’s service area 

• Your current plan is ending or changing its benefits 

• You qualify for a state health insurance assistance program 

• You are eligible for Medicare Extra Help, also known as “Low-Income Subsidy” 

Be sure to check in with your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program to see what guaranteed issue rights in your state look like.

How can you change your Medicare Supplement plan?

The process to change your Medicare Supplement plan is relatively simple. All you need to do is call the insurance company that provides your current plan and ask them to cancel it. Then, you can contact an agent who sells plans in your area, or use the Compare Plans button on our website to compare different plans available in your area. Once you have selected a new plan, you will need to fill out an enrollment form and submit it to the insurance company providing the new plan. The insurance company will then review your application and let you know if you are accepted for coverage. 

Takeaway

Whether you decide to switch during your Medigap open enrollment period, or special circumstances period of eligibility, Fair Square Medicare can help you make sure you have the best plan for your specific circumstances. We will be there with you every step of the way so that you can find the perfect Medicare Supplement plan and rest easy knowing that your healthcare expenses are covered! Contact us today at 1-888-376-2028 to learn more about how we can help.