I signed up for a new Medicare Advantage plan during open enrollment in the fall, but now that I’m using the plan, I found out that it doesn’t cover some of my doctors. Can I switch to another Medicare plan before the next open enrollment?
How to Find Doctors Who Accept Medicare
Yes, if you act by February 14. But there are restrictions. You can only switch to an original Medicare plan, not to another Medicare Advantage plan. Since you would be leaving Medicare Advantage, you would also have the option to choose a Part D prescription-drug plan.
If you miss the February 14 deadline, you generally need to wait until the next open-enrollment period -- October 15 to December 7, 2012 -- to make changes to your coverage for the following year (except in the case of certain life-changing events). See Understanding Medicare Enrollment Periods for more information about these special situations and about the general rules for enrolling in and changing plans.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
-
7 Best Places in the US for Wellness Tourism — Beyond CaliforniaCalifornia doesn't have a monopoly on wellness tourism. These U.S. retreats offer exercise, relaxation and good food in stunning scenery that might be closer to home.
-
How to Apply for Social Security Retirement BenefitsThere are two ways to apply for Social Security retirement benefits.
-
Medicare or Medicare Advantage: Which Is Right for You?From overall costs to availability of care, here's what to know about the differences between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans.
-
What Does Medicare Not Cover? Seven Things You Should KnowHealthy Living on a Budget Medicare Part A and Part B leave gaps in your healthcare coverage. But Medicare Advantage has problems, too.
-
Is a Medicare Advantage Plan Right for You?Medicare Advantage plans can provide additional benefits beneficiaries can't get through original Medicare for no or a low monthly premium. But there are downsides to this insurance too.
-
Medicare Advantage 2024 Plans Dip in RatingsMedicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans lose 'star' on the CMS performance score card.
-
Considering a Medicare Advantage Plan? Be Wary of PromisesThese private insurance alternatives to Medicare are growing in popularity at the same time they’re under scrutiny for their sales tactics and coverage.
-
Medicare Open Enrollment Has Begun — Here's What You Need to KnowMedicare open enrollment is underway. Here's what you need to get done.
-
4 (Imperfect) Ways Retirees Can Pay for Dental Carehealth insurance Since Medicare doesn't provide dental benefits, seniors must consider other options to cover this need.
-
Get Free Over-the-Counter COVID Tests Through MedicareMedicare Beneficiaries can get up to eight tests a month through both original Medicare and Advantage plans.
