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progree

(11,463 posts)
8. The downside of Medigap - If I switch to another Medigap plan, I am subject to medical underwriting
Sun Nov 19, 2017, 12:47 PM
Nov 2017

i.e. they can ask medical questions, review my medical history, and come up with a premium accordingly, or even decide not to sell me a policy. Whereas if I stay in the same plan, I'm charged no more than what they charge new 65 year old's no matter how old and sick I become {1}. So I'm kind of stuck in a way .... at the same time, I should at least take a brief look at what my options are each year anyway... I have to do that with my Part D plan (Medigap plans never include drug coverage except the type that is covered under Part B - e.g. administered in a clinic or hospital).

{1} it's called "community rated" -- all Medigap plans in Minnesota are that way, unlike many, probably most other states where plans can also charge based on age -- age of first enrollment, or "attained age" -- one thing a Medigap plan shopper needs to consider).

My policy is an Extended Basic one (unique to Minnesota (Minnesota is one of 3 states that has some different Medigap plans from the standard ones -- Wisconsin and Massachusetts being the other states.).

Here's the type of plans we have available in Minnesota:
https://www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan/results/medigapresults/medigap-view-all-policies.aspx

Here's the one I have. The premium shown is the 2017 premium.
https://www.aarpmedicareplans.com/health-plans/medicare-supplement-plans.html

My 2017 premium is $200/mo -- $202 less $2 for paying by autopay.

I'll call the SHIP people tomorrow (here it's the Senior Linkage Line) about what they think about the lack of next year's premium information.

Latest Discussions»Issue Forums»Social Security & Medicare»Still don't know what my ...»Reply #8