Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Annual Election Period?
The Annual Election Period occurs each year between October 15 and December 7. For most Medicare beneficiaries, this is the only time they are permitted to make a change to their Medicare coverage. During this time, you may switch to a new Medicare plan or return to Original Medicare. Some people are permitted to make changes outside of the Annual Election Period. For more information, see When to Enroll.
Can I ever go back to Medicare after joining MediGold?
Yes, but only during certain times of the year. Rest assured, if you choose to transfer back to Original Medicare (during an allowable enrollment period), you’ll never be without medical coverage and there is no financial cost for returning to Original Medicare.
Simply send us a completed disenrollment form. You will be disenrolled from MediGold and returned to Original Medicare effective the first day of the month following our receipt of your signed request.
You may also disenroll through 1-800-MEDICARE (24-hours a day, 7 days a week), a Social Security Office, or the Railroad Retirement Board Office (if applicable).
IMPORTANT NOTE: If you become a MediGold member and later enroll in another company’s Medicare Advantage plan, including a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D), you will automatically be disenrolled from MediGold. If you do not intend to disenroll from MediGold, talk with us before completing an application for another company if it pertains to your health or Part D drug coverage. We’ll advise you on how doing so will affect your MediGold benefits. Additionally, if your new plan option doesn’t include Part D prescription drug coverage or coverage that is at least as good as the Medicare standard prescription drug benefit, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty (higher premium) if you decide to join one later. This means your monthly premium could be higher than it would have been otherwise no matter which Part D plan you join later.
Would MediGold want to know why I disenrolled?
Yes. We continuously review and address the thoughts of our current and disenrolled members. To learn more from you, we may contact you by phone.
What if I move away and MediGold’s network doctors are no longer convenient?
If you permanently move out of the MediGold service area, please notify us immediately. You must live in MediGold’s service area to remain a member. We can explain this in more detail if you would like. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services considers a “permanent move” as one where you are away from MediGold’s service are for 6 or more consecutive months. Want more information about this? Simply contact us.
Last Updated 9/30/2011 11:29:27 PM