Supplemental insurance, or Medigap, helps Original Medicare beneficiaries cover healthcare costs not included in their Medicare coverage, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. However, if you have a pre-existing medical condition, it’s essential to understand how Medigap policies handle these conditions and the potential impact on your coverage. This article offers a detailed guide to help you make informed decisions about Medigap insurance in light of your pre-existing conditions.

Medigap and Pre-existing Conditions: What You Need to Know

1. Medigap Open Enrollment Period (OEP): The best time to enroll in a Medigap policy is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which starts the month you turn 65 and lasts for six months. During this period, insurance companies cannot deny you coverage, charge higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions, or impose waiting periods for coverage of these conditions.
2. Waiting Periods: If you enroll in a Medigap policy outside of your OEP, insurance companies can impose a six-month waiting period for coverage of pre-existing conditions. This means you will be responsible for the costs associated with your pre-existing condition during the waiting period. However, the waiting period can be shortened or eliminated if you have creditable coverage, such as group health insurance, within 63 days before enrolling in a Medigap plan.
3. Guaranteed Issue Rights: In some situations, you have guaranteed issue rights, which means insurance companies must sell you a Medigap policy, regardless of your pre-existing conditions, and cannot charge higher premiums or impose waiting periods. Guaranteed issue rights apply in specific circumstances, such as losing employer-sponsored coverage or your Medigap insurance company going bankrupt.
4. State-specific rules: Some states have additional consumer protections for Medigap enrollees with pre-existing conditions. These protections may include shorter waiting periods or prohibiting waiting periods altogether. Research your state’s specific rules to understand how they may affect your coverage.
5. Continuous coverage: If you have continuous creditable coverage for at least six months before enrolling in a Medigap policy, insurers cannot impose waiting periods for pre-existing conditions.

How to Choose a Medigap Policy with Pre-existing Conditions

1. Enroll during your OEP: To avoid waiting periods and secure comprehensive coverage, enroll in a Medigap policy during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period.
2. Research state-specific rules: Understand your state’s regulations regarding Medigap policies and pre-existing conditions to make the most informed decision.
3. Compare plans: Analyze the benefits, costs, and coverage of various Medigap policies to determine which plan best meets your healthcare needs and financial situation.
4. Consult with a licensed insurance agent or State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): Seek professional guidance to help you navigate the complexities of Medigap insurance and pre-existing conditions. The local Medicare experts at Plan Medicare in New York City and Long Island can assist you with finding Medigap insurance when you have a pre-existing condition. 

Understanding how Medigap policies handle pre-existing conditions is crucial when selecting supplemental insurance. By enrolling during your Open Enrollment Period, researching your state’s rules, and comparing plan options, you can secure the coverage you need, despite having a pre-existing medical condition.