Can You Go Back to Medicare Supplement After Medicare Advantage?

Understanding the Switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap

If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan and are considering a switch to a Medicare Supplement plan, also known as Medigap, you’re not alone. Many people find themselves wanting to switch to original Medicare and add a Medigap Plan for various reasons. Maybe your current plan doesn’t meet your needs, or perhaps you prefer the broader coverage that Medigap offers. Here, we’ll explain how to make this switch, the pros and cons, and what you need to know about timing.

Why Consider Switching from Medicare Advantage?

Many individuals consider switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to a Medicare supplement plan or original Medicare with Medigap for increased flexibility. Medicare Advantage Plans often come with network restrictions and may not cover certain services. Original Medicare combined with a Medigap Plan can offer freedom to choose any doctor that accepts Medicare, as well as more comprehensive coverage for out-of-pocket costs.

Steps to Switch to Original Medicare and Get a Medigap Plan

Switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to a Medicare supplement insurance policy involves several steps:

• Leave your Medicare Advantage Plan during the appropriate period, often the Open Enrollment Period or a Special Enrollment Period.
• Enroll in Medicare Parts A and B if you are not already covered.
• Buy any Medigap policy you prefer that fits your needs.

Eligibility and the Open Enrollment Period

To switch back to original Medicare and enroll in a Medigap Plan, it’s important to know you might be subject to medical underwriting if you switch outside of the Medigap open enrollment period. This period begins when you are first eligible for Medicare and lasts for six months. During this time, you have a guaranteed right to buy any Medigap policy available in your area without being denied or charged more due to pre-existing conditions.

Switching Back to Original Medicare

When you want to switch back to original Medicare, it’s often best to do so during the annual Open Enrollment Period from October 15 to December 7. This timeframe allows you to make changes to your Medicare Plan without the need for medical underwriting in some cases. If you meet specific qualifying events, you might also be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period.

Medicare Advantage to Medigap without Underwriting

If you leave your Medicare Advantage Plan during the first year, you have a trial right to return to original Medicare and enroll in a Medigap policy without underwriting. This special right is available if you decide the Medicare Advantage Plan isn’t meeting your needs within the first 12 months. In this scenario, you can buy a Medigap policy without facing higher rates or denial because of your health.

The Cons of Switching from Medicare Advantage

While switching from Medicare Advantage to Medigap has its benefits, there are some cons of switching to consider:

• You may face higher monthly premiums with a Medigap policy compared to Medicare Advantage Plans.
• Prescription drug coverage typically isn’t included in Medigap Plans, so you may need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan.
• If medical underwriting applies, you could be denied coverage or charged higher premiums based on your health condition.

Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement Insurance

It’s crucial to understand that Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Supplement plans work differently. You cannot have both a Medicare Advantage Plan and a Medicare Supplement plan simultaneously. Medicare Supplement policies are designed to work with original Medicare, filling in the gaps in coverage, while Medicare Advantage Plans are all-in-one alternatives to original Medicare.

How to Buy a Medigap Policy

If you determine that a Medigap policy is right for you and want to switch from Medicare Advantage, contact your local agency, like Green Insurance Agency, to get detailed information and assistance. To buy a Medigap policy, follow these steps:

• Research different Medigap policies available in Orange Park, Florida.
• Compare the benefits and premiums of each plan.
• Contact Green Insurance Agency for help in the application process and to ensure you’re getting the best policy for your needs.

We’re Here to Help

Making the switch back to original Medicare and adding a Medigap policy can be a wise choice if you need more freedom and coverage. If you are considering this switch and want to explore your options, call Green Insurance Agency today at 904-717-1176. Our experts are ready to help you find the best Medicare Plan that suits your needs. Don’t wait—ensure you have the right coverage to enjoy peace of mind and excellent healthcare.