You have two basic choices in Medicare to take care of your hospitalization, doctor visits and laboratory tests – Medicare Advantage (also called Medicare Part C) and original Medicare (comprised of Medicare Parts A and B). Original Medicare is often coupled with a Medicare supplement plans A through N. The majority of Medicare Advantage plans (but not all) are health maintenance organizations (HMOs).
What if you opted for one that isn’t working for you?
Are you stuck?
No.
January 1st to February 14th is the time of year set aside when you can migrate back to original Medicare. If you elect to switch between those dates, you will go back to having Medicare Parts A and B. Your coverage will begin on the first day of the following month. If you make this change you will also have the option of adding drug coverage until February 14th.
The change back to original Medicare is no guarantee that you will qualify for a supplement insurance plans A through N. You will have to apply and be accepted by the insurance carrier. During the Annual Disenrollment Period you may NOT switch:
- Original Medicare for a Medicare Advantage Plan
- From one Medicare Advantage Plan to another
- From Medicare prescription drug plan to another.
Those types of changes can only be done during the Medicare Open Enrollment period which is October 15th to December 7th. Confused about your Medicare choices? Call my office for help at 949-854-4941.
Thanks for reading!
