Anyone approaching Medicare age is sure to be swamped with mail regarding the coverage options to consider. For many people, these mailers are put aside or disregarded as “junk mail.” But, Medicare enrollment is an important decision which has both medical care and financial implications.
Individuals are finding that a process intended to make Medicare enrollment simpler is sometimes leading to undesired consequences. CMS allows insurance companies to automatically enroll individuals who have current healthcare coverage into a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan offered by the insurance company when the person first becomes eligible for Medicare.
This process is called “seamless conversion enrollment.” Individuals will receive a written notice at least 60 days prior to the Medicare Advantage coverage effective date. Someone who doesn’t wish to have the MA coverage offered must opt-out of the coverage before the coverage begins.
CMS has released a list of insurance companies that have received approval for “seamless conversion.” It can be found here. CMS has suspended approving additional carriers pending a review of “seamless conversion” amid complaints that have surfaced from Medicare enrollees.
“Seamless conversion” may help people who wish to remain with their known insurance company. But, it’s important that anyone enrolled in the MA plan ascertain that any desired medical providers continue to be part of the MA plan.
Selecting any insurance plan – whether as a senior citizen or at any age – is a complicated and confusing obligation. A health insurance broker can help navigate the many options and advise on the most appropriate policy to fit an individual’s needs.
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