Protecting Yourself From Unscrupulous Medigap Tactics

Youre finally eligible for Medicare

Youre finally eligible for Medicare. However, once you enroll you realize that it just doesnt cover everything. What most people know about Original Medicare is that there are significant gaps in coverage and to rectify this you may want to choose to purchase a Medicare supplement insurance policy, also known as a Medigap plan.

While there are a variety of private Medigap plans you can choose from, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has devised and publicized standard Medigap packages. Originally labeled A through L, in 2010 Plans E, H, I and J were discontinued and Plans M and N were added.

Understanding Your Medigap Plan Rights

Its one thing to be aware of Medicare supplement insurance, says Alan Weinstock, insurance broker at http://www.MedicareSupplementPlans.com. Its another thing to understand your rights. Here are some of the basics that you need to know.

First, you dont need and cant use a Medigap policy if you have a Medicare Advantage plan. However, once you sign up for Medicare Part B you have a six-month Medigap open enrollment period which gives you a guaranteed right to buy a Medicare supplement insurance policy. Once this period starts, it cannot be delayed or replaced. Costs for Medigap insurance vary by company and policy.

No one can pressure you into buying a Medigap plan, mislead you to switch from one insurance company to another or sell a Medicare supplement insurance plan that cannot be sold in your state. In addition, they cannot sell you a second Medigap policy when they know that you already have one, unless you tell the insurance company in writing that you plan to cancel your existing Medigap policy.

Finally, it is illegal for anyone to claim that a Medigap policy is part of the Medicare Program or any other Federal program. Medigap is private health insurance. Plus they cannot claim to be a Medicare representative if they work for a Medigap insurance company.

What to Do to Protect Your Medigap Plan Rights

The very first thing that eligible seniors should do is to learn all they can about Medicare and Medicare supplement insurance, suggests Weinstock. Seniors should talk to someone who knows and can help them compare rates, plans and benefits for Medicare supplement insurance before they buy.

If you decide on Medicare with a supplemental Medigap policy, its important to weigh your options. Seek out experts and ask questions when looking to purchase Medigap insurance. To get the facts contact the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Federal department in charge of the Medicare Program, or consider talking to the brokers at http://www.MedicareSupplementPlans.com.

And if you believe that a Federal law has been broken, call the Inspector Generals hotline at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477). TTY users should call 1-800-377-4950. Or your State Insurance Department can help you with other insurance-related problems.

by: Dallas

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