MAOEP: Three Reasons to Take Advantage

There are many different enrollment periods for Medicare and it can be difficult to remember which one is which! The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MAOEP) is every year from Jan. 1 March 31. It’s slightly different than the Annual Enrollment Period for Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D which is Oct. 15-Dec. 7 but it’s important nonetheless. 

What is the MAOEP

The MAEOP is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period. It is every year from Jan. 1-March 31. During this time you can drop a plan to switch back to Original Medicare or switch plans. However, you cannot join a Medicare Advantage Plan if you are not already enrolled. 

Coverage will become effective the 1st of the month after changes were made. So, changes made in January will become effective February 1. Changes made in February will become effective March 1. Changes made in March will become effective April 1. 

Switch Back to Original Medicare

So, if you do decide to leave your Part C plan, you can do so during the MAOEP. You’ll be able to re-enroll in Original Medicare and Part D at this time. As a reminder, you cannot switch Part D plans independently during the MAOEP. You may also be able to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan without medical underwriting at this time, but it depends upon a series of factors. If you choose to do so, contact a broker. 

Doctors Aren’t in Network

With a Medicare Advantage plan you are beholden to your plan and carrier’s network. Many are surprised to find that the doctors and hospitals that they wish to use aren’t in network and don’t accept their plan. If this is the case, you are definitely going to want to make a switch. 

You can opt for another Medicare Advantage plan with a broader network. But make sure to confirm your doctor and hospital of choice accept this plan.

You can also make the switch to Original Medicare. Almost all doctors and hospitals accept Medicare. 

Find Better Advantage Plan

Very often people are lured in with the promise of a “free” Medicare Advantage plan. Are they free? Absolutely not.

Also, many people are confused by the term of their plan and end up selecting one that doesn’t meet their needs. For example, your plan may not offer prescription drug coverage. It may include dental coverage but not to the extent that you need. You also may discover there’s a CSNP better suited for you. If this is a case, make the switch to a better Medicare Advantage Plan. Again, we suggest you work with a broker. 

Call us at iHealthBrokers at 888-918-0518 or schedule an appointment today. Our services are 100% FREE.