Can I Change My Medicare Plan If I Don’t Like It?

You picked your Medicare plan, the cards came in the mail, and… it’s just not what you expected.  Maybe — like Lucy’s famous taste tests — it just doesn’t sit right with you.  Good news: You’re Not Stuck — You Have Options   Medicare gives you several chances each year to make a change.

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) – Oct 15 to Dec 7

This is the time when everyone with Medicare can make changes. During AEP, you can:

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan

• Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare

• Change your Medicare Advantage Plan

• Join, drop, or change your Part D drug plan

Here’s the key detail many miss: If you want to switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare and add a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan — it’s easy in some states, like New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. These states offer what's called guaranteed issue, meaning:

• No medical underwriting

• No health questions

• No denials due to pre-existing conditions

New York is also a “Trial Right” state, which offers a change within your first 12 months of trying Medicare Advantage for the first time.

In most other states, you may have to:

• Answer health questions

• Be subject to medical underwriting

• Pay more or even be denied coverage

 That’s why it’s crucial to work with a licensed agent who understands your state’s rules.

The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period – Jan 1 to Mar 31

This one surprises a lot of people! If you’re already in a Medicare Advantage plan, you get a second chance after the new year to:

• Switch to another Medicare Advantage plan (one time change)

• Drop Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare (and add a Part D plan)

 You cannot use this time to switch into Medicare Advantage if you’re not already in one. But if your current Advantage plan isn’t working, this is your “do-over.”

 The 5-Star Special Enrollment Period

Every year, Medicare gives star ratings to plans. If a 5-star Medicare Advantage or drug plan becomes available in your area, you can make a one-time switch at any point during the year.  Note:  there are currently no 5-Star plans on Long Island.

Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs)

Certain life events may give you a chance to switch outside the usual enrollment windows:

• You move out of your plan’s service area

• You lose employer or union coverage

• You qualify for Medicaid or Extra Help or other State Programs

Each Special Enrollment Period has specific rules, so don’t try to go it alone.

Choosing a Medicare plan is a big decision — and it’s okay to change your mind. Whether you feel frustrated, overwhelmed, or just plain confused, the important thing is to do something about it.  And the best part? You don’t have to figure it out on your own.  At ABC Medicare Plans Broker, we specialize in helping people like you:

• Compare your options

• Understand New York’s guaranteed issue rules

• Find a plan that fits your doctors, prescriptions, budget and lifestyle

Give me a call, and let’s make sure your Medicare plan doesdoesn’t feel like bitter medicine to swallow.  631-337-3625