When can a Medicare supplement policy be denied coverage based on health status?

A Medicare supplement policy cannot be denied coverage based on health status during the open enrollment period. This period is a critical time frame, typically lasting for six months beginning the first month a person is 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this time, insurers are required by law to offer coverage regardless of the applicant's health status, claims experience, or gender. This ensures that all individuals have equal access to Medicare supplement plans, promoting a fair opportunity for coverage and preventing discrimination based on health.

Once the open enrollment period ends, insurers may utilize medical underwriting, meaning that applicants can potentially be denied coverage or charged higher premiums based on their health history or pre-existing conditions. Therefore, it is vital for beneficiaries to understand the importance of enrolling in a Medicare supplement plan during this designated time frame to secure coverage without health-related barriers.