If you have clients who want to change their Medicare Advantage plan, let them know they can do one of two things:
- Move to a different Medicare Advantage Plan that has or does not have drug coverage.
- Switch back to Original Medicare. If they choose this option, they may also join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.
For clients who make either of the above changes, new coverage begins the first day of the month after they’ve requested the new plan.
The Medicare Advantage OEP isn’t meant for those already enrolled in Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement plan or a Medicare Part D drug plan. No changes can be made to standalone Part D drug plans. These can only be made during Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period.
After March 31, 2022, clients may be able to make Medicare Advantage plan changes by qualifying for a Special Election Period. All beneficiaries will be able to make changes once again during Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period, October 15 through December 7, 2022.
Medicare.gov urges beneficiaries going back to Original Medicare during this OEP to understand that it’s possible they won’t be able to buy a Medigap policy at another time. Those who apply for Medigap coverage outside of the OEP may have to meet medical underwriting requirements or become eligible due to a number of situations, like having a qualifying pre-existing condition or other health problems.
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LEGAL DISCLAIMER: The above is meant to be strictly educational and not intended to provide medical advice or solicit the sales of an insurance product or service of any kind.
