What specific group of customers is the ICEP designed for?

The ICEP, or Initial Coverage Election Period, is specifically intended for customers who become newly eligible for Medicare Parts A and B. These individuals have the opportunity to enroll in Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, which offer an alternative to standard Medicare coverage. During this period, the individuals can select an MA-only plan, which provides comprehensive healthcare services through private insurance companies that contract with Medicare.

This initial election period is crucial because it allows newly eligible individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage as they transition into Medicare. It is a designated time frame that recognizes their recent eligibility status and provides them with the appropriate options to secure the health insurance they need.

In this context, while other groups such as those over 65 years old may also include individuals eligible for Medicare, understanding that the ICEP specifically targets those newly enrolled in Parts A and B clarifies the focus on their opportunity to select an MA plan as they enter the Medicare program.