The Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) is a law that changed Medicare Supplement plans in all states and became effective on January 1, 2020. This new rule affected who can buy Medigap Plans F, High F, and C. As of 2020, only beneficiaries that are not newly eligible are able to keep Plan F, High F and C.
What Rules Changed Medigap?
Due to MACRA, as of January 1, 2020:
- Medicare Supplement plans with Part B deductible coverage (Plans C, F and high deductible F) cannot be purchased by “newly eligible” Medicare recipients.
- The following guaranteed issue plans are accessible for “newly eligible” Medicare recipients: Plans D, G, and High Deductible G.
What is the meaning of “newly eligible” Medicare recipients?
People who are 65 years of age or became first eligible for Medicare because of age, disability or end-stage renal sickness on or after January 1, 2020 are considered “newly eligible”. If you already had Medicare Part A and B in 2019, then you are NOT considered “newly eligible” and the MACRA rules do not apply to you.
How are prior to 2020 enrollees in Plans C, F, and High Deductible F influenced by these changes?
Those qualified for Medicare before January 1, 2020 including those who had Plan C, F, or High Deductible F are able to keep their plan. What’s more, they can keep on purchasing Plans C, F, and High Deductible F after January 1, 2020. Current enrollees will likewise be able to purchase the new Plan High Deductible G on or after January 1, 2020.
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What happened to Guaranteed Issue Medigap?
With the new MACRA Rule, Medigap Plan C and F will be the guaranteed issue plan for those who were Medicare eligible before Jan 1st 2020. Medigap Plan D and G, on the other hand, will be the guaranteed issue plan for those who were Medicare eligible after Jan 1st 2020.
Example: If you are currently 70 year old but enrolling in Part B for the first time, you can purchase plan F without medical underwriting since you were eligible for Medicare prior to Jan 1st 2020.
So don’t believe it when you hear people say “Plan F is going away.” Medigap Plan F will always be available those who became Medicare eligible prior to Jan 1st, 2020.
Next Steps for Plan F?
Even if you qualify for Plan F you will want to still consider Plan G. You should select the Medigap plan that best meets your needs now and in the future. For most of our clients, Medicare Supplement Plan G is usually the best short and long-term fit but there are lots of variables when it comes to choosing a plan.
You can get prices and enroll in Medigap Plan F and G here. If you want to discuss your specific situation, give us a call at 800-930-7956.