How to Switch from Medicare Advantage to Medicare Supplement

​The Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement are two different insurance types offered by private insurance companies. Each has its particular benefits, but the catch is, you can’t have both at the same time. However, you do have an option to switch plans if you need to. And, here is how you can get started.

How to Switch to Medicare Supplement
Before you can request a Medicare Supplement or Medigap, you would need to drop your Medicare Advantage. Revert to Medicare Part A and Part B is allowed during specific periods, such as:

• Between January 1 and March 31 is the Medicare Advantage enrollment period.
• October 15 to December 7, the Annual Election Period or open enrollment for Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription coverage.

When Else Can You Switch
There are times when you default to your Original Medicare because of certain events. Other circumstances would allow you to switch to Medigap, like:

• Moving outside the service area of your plan
• If the provider terminates its contract with Medicare
• Transferring  to a nursing facility or institution, or vice versa

As soon as you’ve enrolled back to the Original Medicare, you are qualified to apply for Medicare Supplement.

Reminder About Going Back to Original Medicare
It would be best if you were aware of some minor setbacks. Most of the time, you won’t have guaranteed-issue rights when you switch back from Medicare Advantage. What it means is that your insurer may need medical underwriting before you can obtain a plan. In this scenario, the insurance company will assess your current health status and medical history.

However, there are also other ways you can switch without losing your guaranteed-issue rights. You can receive 63-day limited guaranteed-issue rights when:

• You got Medicare Advantage for the first time you had Medicare and decided to switch to Medigap within 12 months.
• Your plan stopped operating in your area.

It is reassuring to have options available to get the protection when you need it the most. And, there would always be a time when getting a Medicare Supplement is the best plan for you.

At The Medicare Space, we do our best in making sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (866) 717-8683 or Click Here to request a free quote.