Important dates for Medicare beneficiaries |
November 20, 2017 |
The Idaho Department of Insurance would like to
remind Medicare beneficiaries who are under the
age of 65 that they are eligible to purchase a
Medicare Supplement, also known as Medigap,
policy with an effective date of January 1,
2018. Medigap coverage can help pay some of the
health care costs that original Medicare does
not cover, such as copayments, coinsurance, and
deductibles.
Beneficiaries who intend to purchase a Medigap
policy with an effective date of January 1,
2018, are encouraged to consider their Part D
drug coverage and Part C Medicare Advantage
options prior to the end of the Annual
Enrollment Period on December 7, 2017.
Beneficiaries are also encouraged to become
informed of any possible penalties or loss of
prescription coverage should they miss enrolling
for Part D coverage before the end of the Annual
Enrollment Period.
The Medicare Advantage (MA) Disenrollment Period
may also be an option for those wishing to leave
their Medicare Advantage plan and purchase a
Medigap policy. The MA Disenrollment Period is
January 1 to February 14.
During that period, eligible beneficiaries
switching from an MA plan to original Medicare
will also have an opportunity to purchase a Part
D plan.
The Department’s Senior Health Insurance
Benefits Advisors counselors are available to
answer questions and provide information to all
Idahoans who are eligible for Medicare coverage.
Consumers are also encouraged to consult with a
licensed insurance agent before purchasing
coverage.
Consumers with questions about this or other
Medicare issues are welcome to contact SHIBA at
800-247-4422. |
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