Understanding the 2012 Medicare Advantage enrollment periods

When Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Part D was introduced in 2006 Medicare Advantage enrollment periods were pretty straight forward. But things have changed in the last couple of years.

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) for plans with a January 2012 effective date  begins October 15, 2011 and ends December 7, 2011.

The Open Enrollment Period which ran from January 1 to March 31 has been eliminated. You have a six week window to research and choose the best Medicare Advantage Plan for your needs.

Medicare Advantage Plan – 2012 Enrollment Tips

Annual Dis-enrollment Period

You are able to dis-enroll from a Medicare Advantage Plan beginning January 1 through February 14. Your only option is to return to original Medicare. You can purchase a stand-alone Part D Plan or a Part D Plan and a Medicare supplement (underwriting may apply).

If you enrolled in a Part D Plan during the AEP and would like to switch, you are in most cases, out of luck. You must keep the plan through the end of the year.

Exceptions to the rule

• When you become eligible for Medicare you have a 7 month window where you can join a Medicare Advantage Plan. The period begins 3 months prior to the month you turn 65, the month you turn 65 and 3 months after the month you turn 65.
• If you move out of your plan’s service area you are entitled to a Special Enrollment Period.
• If you qualify for extra help due to low income you are entitled to a Special Enrollment Period.
• If you live in an institution such as a nursing home you also qualify for a special Enrollment Period.
• Losing your employer group health coverage also qualifies.

Other reasons you may be able to switch plans outside of the Annual Enrollment Period includes misrepresentation or a plan defaulting on their obligation to provide coverage.

If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan it’s important to keep in mind that your plan is an annual plan and can change from year to year. Because of this you should mark these 2012 Medicare Advantage enrollment periods on your calendar and compare plans at the appropriate time.