Can I switch from AARP UHC Advantage to AARP Medigap?

[RandyG460997]

I have been on AARP UHC Advantage since May 2022, when I first became eligibile. I would like to switch to AARP UHC Medigap plan G during Open Enrollment. Is that allowed? How do I go about it?

[GailL1]

@RandyG460997 

The annual Open enrollment period is only for switching Medicare Advantage Plans or Prescription drug plans.  

As to whether or not you can switch from a MA plan back to Traditional Medicare AND picking up a companion Medigap plan - MAYBE but much of this depends on the state where you live.

In states where the Medigap guaranteed issue period has NOT been expanded in some way, you may have to go thru medical underwriting to pick up a Medigap plan.  That could make the purchase of one now very expensive because they could up-rate you on your health condition(s).  Or they could deny you all together based on your health OR they could let you switch but also put a disallowance for a pre-existing condition for a period of time.

Much of this is determined by the state where you live.  So What state?

There are also certain other times when you might be able to pick up Trad. Medicare with a companion Medigap policy - like IF your Medicare Advantage plan terminates the plan in your area.  That may open up a guaranteed issue period for you.  

Follow this Medicare gov site along to see if you are able to do it.  

Medicare.gov - When Can I buy a Medigap policy? 

Need more help - come back and give your state and any particulars on why you want to switch.

You can always go back to Traditional Medicare from a Part C Medicare Advantage plan - It is the Medigap policy that might give you problem depending on your situation -

Yu can always talk to your state’s SHIP office or to a local independent (represents lots of different companies) Medicare Insurance broker - they know the law in your state and they know the companies they represent as to how strict any of them may be under medical underwriting if that is what you would be required to do.

If you give your state, I can let you know of any special rules the state may have in this regards.