The Affordable Care Act doesn’t affect Medigap in most cases, but there is one thing that could change in the future for Medigap policyholders: Plan C and F may cost more out of pocket. As 1/5 of all Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in Medicare Supplemental plans this change could affect a great many seniors.
Medigap Changes in 2015?
The changes have not been confirmed and won’t be until 2015, however Medigap Plan C and F plans’ policyholders may have to pay for some services out of pocket after 2015. According to the Kaiser Health News, “In 2015 National Association of Insurance Commissioners is required TO (sic) evaluate the benefit packages of Plans C and F with an eye toward adding nominal cost sharing by 2015.”
Why are they Picking on Medigap Plan C and F?
These plans currently have do not have copays or coinsurance when seeking medical care (as long as you stay within the plans guidelines), if their plan covers it and if that service is covered by Original Medicare. Therefore people covered by Medigap plans are more likely to see a doctor, in turn costing Medicare more money. A lot more. It actually costs 33% more, according to a 2009 study. This is why there might be a change in a year or so.
Will Medigap Changes Affect Current Plans?
It appears that it may not affect current policyholders, but there is no definitive answer on this just yet. According to Gretchen Jacobson, a principal policy analyst with the Program on Medicare Policy at the Kaiser Family Foundation, states, “The changes might only apply to new policyholders.” If Jacobson is correct and you are interested in a Medigap policy make sure you are locked in to the one you want now. If you are turning 65 in the next year, enroll as soon as you are eligible to avoid the possible changes.
To learn more about Medigap plans call the number above or contact Senior65.com.