The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, from October 15th through December 7th, is when Medicare beneficiaries can enroll in or change their Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) plan to take effect January 1.
Some Important Tips to Consider if you are now enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plan:
- You can leave your Medicare Advantage plan and enroll in another Medicare Advantage plan offered in your county. [We offer several]
- Even if you decide to stay with your current Medicare Advantage plan, make sure your doctors and preferred hospitals are still in your network, especially if your plan is a HMO.
- You can leave Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare and purchase a Medicare Supplement (aka Medigap) policy. For New York State residents, acceptance is guaranteed and the continuous coverage transfer means no pre-existing condition limitations apply.
Some Important Tips to Consider if you are now enrolled in a Medicare SUPPLEMENT Plan:
- The Annual Enrollment Period applies to your Part D drug plan only.
- New York State residents can change their Medicare Supplement plan at any time of the year and without medical underwriting. An example could be changing from one company to another or changing from one plan (Plan F, Plan G, Plan N or High Deductible) to another.
- You can leave your Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan and join a Medicare Advantage plan during the Annual Enrollment Period. There is no underwriting to move to a Medicare Advantage plan. You will be automatically accepted as long as your permanent address is within the coverage area.
- Unless your prescription drugs are covered through the Veterans Administration, most individuals with Original Medicare and a Medicare Supplement plan also add a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. We recommend updating your medication list and confirming which Part D drug plans will cover your prescriptions at the lowest annual out of pocket costs – that includes premium, deductible and prescription copay costs.
Our team of licensed, independent and certified agent advisors, from Long Island to the North Country, offer a no-obligation complimentary consultation to help you compare Medicare plans in your coverage area.
So, reach out to local agent by phone, an online note or book an appointment directly to his or her calendar and learn more about your Medicare plan options.