How Beneficiaries Should Think About Medicare Supplement Plans: Carrier Selection and Flexibility to Change Plans

When choosing a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, beneficiaries must consider two critical factors: the carrier they select and their ability to change plans through underwriting. Medigap plans are standardized, meaning that each plan offers the same basic benefits regardless of the carrier. However, the cost of premiums, the level of customer service, and the ease of switching plans can vary significantly from one carrier to another.

?Carrier Selection: Why It Matters

While the benefits of Medigap plans are standardized, the carrier you choose will impact your experience as a policyholder. Different insurance companies offer varying levels of service, premium pricing, and perks. It's important to select a carrier with a reputation for strong customer service and financial stability. A carrier like Humana, for example, offers a range of valuable benefits that make the experience of enrolling and staying with a Medigap plan more straightforward.

Ability to Change Plans: Underwriting Considerations

One of the key features of Medigap is that beneficiaries have the option to change plans after their initial enrollment period, but this usually requires medical underwriting. This means your health will be evaluated, and the insurer may either deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on your health status. For this reason, it's crucial to pick a plan that fits your long-term needs right from the start. However, if you do need to switch plans later, some carriers make the process easier than others.

How Humana Makes Medigap Enrollment and Switching Simple

Humana has gone above and beyond to make the Medigap process simple and stress-free for both beneficiaries and agents. Here's how Humana stands out:

1. $0 Application Fee: With no application fee, beneficiaries can apply for a Medigap plan without worrying about upfront costs. This ensures that making a change or applying for coverage doesn't come with an additional financial burden.
2. Simplified Text Message Signature: Humana offers a modern, convenient way to complete applications with a simple text message signature. This eliminates the need for cumbersome paperwork and speeds up the enrollment process.
3. Auto Underwriting Tool: Humana's auto underwriting tool helps expedite the underwriting process, allowing for faster decision-making and reducing the time beneficiaries spend waiting for approval. This can be particularly helpful for those who need quick access to coverage.
4. Broker Assist Team: To provide further support, Humana has established a Med Supp Broker Assist Team within its Agent Support Team. This team is dedicated to helping brokers and beneficiaries resolve any issues or answer questions throughout the new business processing period. This ensures that agents have the resources they need to guide their clients effectively.
5. Direct Access to Underwriters: Humana understands that sometimes a quick, direct answer is necessary, which is why they've made it possible for brokers to speak to an underwriter directly. This kind of access ensures faster responses to complex questions and gives beneficiaries peace of mind that their concerns are being addressed promptly.

Peace of Mind with Humana Med Supp

With all of these features working together, Humana simplifies the process of selecting and enrolling in a Medigap plan. Beneficiaries can have confidence not only in the coverage they select but also in the support they'll receive throughout their policy term. Whether you're enrolling for the first time or considering a plan change, Humana’s tools and teams ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience.