When does Medicare Supplement Insurance effective coverage begin?

Medicare Supplement Insurance, often referred to as Medigap, is designed to fill the gaps in coverage that Original Medicare does not cover, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. The effective coverage for a Medicare Supplement plan typically begins during a specific period known as the Medigap Open Enrollment Period.

This Open Enrollment Period occurs during the first six months after an individual becomes entitled to Medicare Part A. This means that when an individual is enrolled in Medicare Part A, they have guaranteed issue rights to purchase a Medigap policy, which protects them from being denied coverage due to pre-existing conditions.

This period is crucial because it allows individuals to secure a supplement policy without the risk of higher premiums or denial based on health status. Thus, the effective coverage for Medicare Supplement Insurance begins during the first six months after a person is entitled to Medicare Part A, making this option the correct answer.

Other periods, such as the annual open enrollment period for Medicare, do not specifically pertain to Medigap policies in the same way and do not ensure guaranteed issue rights based on health. Similarly, the first six months after enrolling in Medicare Part B may not apply, as the right to purchase Medigap is primarily tied to Medicare