Can I Switch From an Advantage Plan to a Medicare Supplement?

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is a crucial time for Medicare beneficiaries to review and make changes to their healthcare coverage. Running from October 15 to December 7 each year, the AEP allows you to:

• Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan or vice versa
• Switch between different MA plans
• Enroll in, change, or drop a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan

Keep in mind that if you switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement plan during the AEP, you may be subject to medical underwriting, which can impact your eligibility and premium rates.

In most cases, switching from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement plan requires medical underwriting. This process involves an evaluation of your health status and medical history by the insurance company, which can affect your eligibility and premium rates.

However, there are certain situations in which you can switch without medical underwriting, such as during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period or if you have a guaranteed issue right due to specific circumstances like losing coverage or moving out of your plan’s service area.

The Medicare 12-month trial right period is a special provision designed to give Medicare beneficiaries a chance to try out a Medicare Advantage plan without long-term commitment. If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan for the first time and decide within the first 12 months that you would prefer a Medicare Supplement plan, you can use your trial right period to make the switch.

During this 12-month window, you have the option to leave your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). You also have the opportunity to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan with guaranteed issue rights.

Guaranteed issue rights are circumstances under which insurance companies must sell you a Medicare Supplement policy, regardless of your health status or pre-existing conditions. When you have guaranteed issue rights, insurers cannot charge you higher premiums or deny you coverage based on your health history.

These rights are crucial for Medicare beneficiaries who may have health issues or concerns, as they ensure access to Medicare Supplement plans without facing increased costs or coverage limitations due to their medical conditions.

To make the most of your 12-month trial right period, it’s essential to monitor your satisfaction with your Medicare Advantage plan and consider whether a Medicare Supplement plan might better suit your needs. Some factors to consider include:

1. Provider choice: Medicare Supplement plans allow you to see any healthcare provider that accepts Medicare, without network restrictions. If you find your Medicare Advantage plan’s provider network limiting, a Medicare Supplement plan might be a better fit.
2. Predictable costs: Medicare Supplement plans cover out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare, leading to more predictable healthcare expenses. If your Medicare Advantage plan’s copayments, coinsurance, or deductibles are too high for your budget, a Medicare Supplement plan could offer more financial stability.
3. Coverage while traveling: Medicare Supplement plans provide coverage across the United States, making them suitable for those who travel frequently. If your Medicare Advantage plan’s service area restrictions are causing concern, a Medicare Supplement plan may offer greater flexibility.

Can I switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement plan at any time?

No, you can only switch during specific enrollment periods, such as the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, or your Medigap Open Enrollment Period.

Will I need a separate prescription drug plan if I switch to a Medicare Supplement plan?

Yes, Medicare Supplement plans do not include prescription drug coverage. You’ll need to enroll in a separate Part D plan for this coverage.

Can I keep my current healthcare providers if I switch to a Medicare Supplement plan?

Medicare Supplement plans allow you to see any healthcare provider that accepts Medicare, without network restrictions. However, it’s essential to verify whether your current providers accept Medicare before making the switch.

How do I find the best Medicare Supplement plan for my needs?

Compare different Medigap policies offered in your state based on coverage, cost, and insurance company reputation. You can put in your zip code for our FREE comparison tool above or call us today at 1-888-891-0229 for a licensed agent to help you find the best plan for your individual healthcare needs.

Can I switch back to a Medicare Advantage plan if I’m not satisfied with my Medicare Supplement plan?

Yes, you can switch back to a Medicare Advantage plan during the Annual Enrollment Period or the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period.

Are there any penalties for switching from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement plan?

There are no penalties for switching, but you may be subject to medical underwriting, which can affect your eligibility and premium rates when enrolling in a Medicare Supplement plan

What happens to my Medicare Advantage plan when I switch to a Medicare Supplement plan?

When you switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement plan, your Medicare Advantage plan will be terminated, and you will return to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). Your new Medicare Supplement plan will then work alongside Original Medicare to cover your out-of-pocket costs.

Will my Medicare Supplement plan cover me if I travel outside the United States?

Some Medicare Supplement plans (specifically, Plans C, D, F, G, M, and N) offer limited foreign travel emergency coverage. Be sure to check your specific plan for details on the extent of coverage and any restrictions.

How do I cancel my Medicare Advantage plan to switch to a Medicare Supplement plan?

You can cancel your Medicare Advantage plan during the Annual Enrollment Period or the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period by enrolling in a new plan or returning to Original Medicare. Your MA plan will be automatically terminated once the new coverage begins.

Can I switch from a Medicare Supplement plan to a Medicare Advantage plan without medical underwriting?

Yes, you can switch from a Medicare Supplement plan to a Medicare Advantage plan during the Annual Enrollment Period or the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period without undergoing medical underwriting.

Switching from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement plan is a personal decision that depends on your healthcare needs, preferences, and budget. It’s important to consider the pros and cons of each type of coverage and to be aware of the specific enrollment periods and potential medical underwriting requirements.

By understanding the differences between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans, you can make an informed decision that best suits your individual healthcare needs.