Can I Cancel Or switch to A Different Medicare Advantage Plan?

In most cases, you are enrolled in a plan for a year. If you are already in a Medicare Advantage Plan and want to switch to a different Medicare Advantage Plan, simply join the plan you choose. You will be dis-enrolled automatically from your old plan when your new plan’s coverage begins.

You can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage Plan only during certain times:

• When you first become eligible for Medicare (the 7 month period that begins 3 months before the month you turn age 65, includes the month you turn age 65, and ends 3 months after the month you turn age 65)
• If you get Medicare due to a disability, you can join during the 3 months before to 3 months after your 25th month of disability. You will have another chance to join 3 months before the month you turn age 65 to 3 months after the month you turn age 65.
• Between November 15–December 31 each year. Your coverage will begin on January 1 of the following year, as long as the plan gets your enrollment request by December 31.
• Between January 1–March 31 of each year. Your coverage will begin the first day of the month after the plan gets your enrollment form.

In certain situations, you may be able to join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage Plan at other times, e.g.

• If you move out of your plan’s service area
• If you have both Medicare and Medicaid
• If you qualify for Extra Help to pay for your prescription drug costs
• If you live in an institution (e.g. nursing home)

More Articles About Medicare Advantage

1. Medicare Advantage Plans
2. Am I Eligible For A Medicare Advantage Plan?
3. What Is New For Medicare Advantage Plans In 2010?
4. Do I Have Medicare Part D Coverage With A Medicare Advantage Plan?
5. Can I Cancel Or switch to A Different Medicare Advantage Plan?
6. Does A Medicare Advantage Plan Work With My Medicare Supplement Plan?
7. What Happens To My Medicare Supplemental Insurance If I Enroll In A Medicare Advantage Plan?
8. What If My Medicare Advantage Plan Is Discontinued In 2010?
9. Can I Enroll In A Medicare Advantage Plan If I have Already Other Health Insurance Coverage?
10. How Much Are Medicare Advantage Plans 2010?
11. How Can I Enroll In A Medicare Advantage Plan?

Tags: cancel, Change, drop, join, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Advantage Plan, Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Advantage Plans 2010, Medicare Part C, Switch