Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get rid of a MEDICARE REPLACEMENT PLAN (Medicare Advantage)?
If you or a loved one signed up for a MEDICARE REPLACEMENT PLAN (Medicare Advantage) thinking it was a Medicare Supplement Plan, or you are unhappy with the coverage, the same agents who sell MEDICARE REPLACEMENT PLANS (Medicare Advantage) typically sell Medicare Supplement plans. Several opportunities exist to change from a MEDICARE REPLACEMENT PLAN (Medicare Advantage) back to traditional Medicare during open enrollment and other Special Enrollment Periods. Visit our Leave “Advantage” page to learn more.
What if I have Medicaid and Medicare?
If you have Medicaid and Medicare, Medicaid serves as your supplement to Medicare so you do not need a supplemental plan. You are, likely, better served by these two government backed plans rather than a MEDICARE REPLACEMENT PLAN (Medicare Advantage).
Can I get rid of my Medicare Advantage Plan if I am admitted to a nursing home?
Yes. There are several Special Enrollment Periods which allow you to switch back to your original Medicare benefit. Visit our Leave “Advantage” page for more info.
Where do I buy a Medicare Supplement or Medigap Policy?
The same agents who sell MEDICARE REPLACEMENT PLANS (Medicare Advantage) usually sell Medicare Supplement or Medigap Plans. If not, you should be able to find a local agent who sells Medicare Supplement/Medigap plans. If you don’t have anywhere else to purchase a supplemental plan, you can purchase a Medicare supplement plan from Healthcare Risk Services, LLC. This agency is owned by healthcare providers (including the originator of this website), and we do not sell MEDICARE REPLACEMENT PLANS (Medicare Advantage).
What should I buy instead of a MEDICARE REPLACEMENT PLAN?
If you are a Medicare recipient, the best alternative which gives the patient the most control over his or her medical care is simply a Medicare Supplement or Medigap plan. These plans “wrap around” the traditional Medicare plan to cover deductibles and shared expenses for both inpatient (Part A) and outpatient (Part B) coverage. A Part D plan will then cover medication expenses.
Whom do I call If I have problems with a MEDICARE REPLACEMENT PLAN insurance company?
All insurance companies function in each state at the behest of the state Insurance Commissioner. Most Insurance Commissioners have a consumer protection division. This is a good place to start if you believe you or your loved one are being treated unfairly by an insurance company.
For more information, review your Medicare Rights.
Will I always be able to switch from a MEDICARE REPLACEMENT PLAN (Medicare Advantage) to Medicare and purchase a Medicare supplement/Medigap plan?
Not necessarily. If you purchase a MEDICARE REPLACEMENT PLAN (Medicare Advantage) instead of a Medicare Supplement/Medigap Plan, you could lose your opportunity to purchase a Medicare Supplement/Medigap Plan in the future should you develop health concerns and become uninsurable for a Medicare Supplement/Medigap Plan.
When can I purchase a Medicare Supplement/Medigap Plan?
If you are about to turn 65 you have only a brief seven-month window in which to obtain a Medicare supplement policy without underwriting restrictions.