What will happen to Margaret if she enrolls in a standalone PDP while currently having an MA PD plan?

Enrolling in a standalone Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) while currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage (MA PD plan) will lead to automatic disenrollment from the MA PD plan. This is because Medicare rules stipulate that a beneficiary cannot have both a Medicare Advantage plan that provides drug coverage and a standalone PDP simultaneously.

When an individual chooses to enroll in a standalone PDP, it essentially signals to Medicare that they are opting out of the comprehensive coverage provided by the MA PD plan. As a result, the system processes this change, and the individual is automatically disenrolled from the MA PD plan to ensure that there is no overlap in coverage.

This rule is designed to prevent conflicting coverage situations and to streamline the Medicaid process for beneficiaries. It also helps ensure that beneficiaries are not burdened with coordinating between two plans that may offer overlapping services. Understanding how Medicare's enrollment rules work is crucial for beneficiaries to avoid unintended loss of coverage or confusion about their benefits.