Issues With Medicare Post-Enrollment

Published in Member Communities on January 03, 2020

Even though the Medicare enrollment period ended last month, there are potential issues that suppliers and beneficiaries may face if they switched from Original Medicare (FFS) to a Medicare Advantage plan. When it comes to selecting a plan, customers may not have had all the information they needed to know regarding the exact benefits and coverage that are included with certain plans. It is possible that customers could have lost access to certain coverage that they had with Original Medicare, including access to their medical equipment and repairs to their current equipment.

If you know of customers who are experiencing this issue, it is important to let them know that they have the ability to change their plan any time before Feb. 14, 2020. If after Feb. 14, 2020, they have a problem in obtaining medical equipment due to their current insurance plan, they will need to file a complaint with Medicare directly at 1-800-633-4227 (1-800-Medicare). A Medicare representative will be able to assist your customer in switching back to original (traditional) Medicare if determined that is best for them. 

More information regarding this issue can be found in a recent article from HME News written by U.S. Rehab’s Director of Reimbursement, Dan Fedor. Dan also conducted a webinar that provided insight into what suppliers can do if a Medicare Advantage plan doesn't enable their customer to receive the medically necessary equipment they require. Click here to view the recording.