What is the outcome if a member disenrolls from a MA plan during AEP?

When a member disenrolls from a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan during the Annual Election Period (AEP), the disenrollment typically takes effect on December 31st of that same year. This time frame is important as it aligns with the rules governing MA plans and the AEP period itself, which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year.

To understand why this is the correct answer, it’s essential to recognize that the AEP is designed to give beneficiaries the opportunity to change their Medicare coverage for the upcoming year. A disenrollment submitted during this period will not result in immediate termination of coverage; instead, it allows for a transition period where the member can either revert to Original Medicare or enroll in a different plan that will become effective the following year.

The disenrollment being effective on December 31st ensures that beneficiaries have continuous coverage and can make informed decisions about their health care options without immediate gaps in insurance. This rules out options that imply an immediate loss of coverage or restrictions on waiting for another enrollment period.