If you apply for a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, you will not need to go through medical underwriting. But if you apply later, insurance companies are allowed to ask about your health and could charge you more or even deny your coverage. Below, this Medicare supplement provider in Knox, Indiana is going to explore some of the most common health questions you may have to answer when applying for a Medigap plan.

How do the Medigap enrollment period and medical underwriting affect you?

If you apply during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (which lasts six months from the first month you turn 65 and have Medicare Part B), you can get any plan without answering health questions. Insurance companies cannot deny you coverage or charge you extra because of your pre-existing conditions during this period. But if you apply outside this period, insurance companies can review your health history. They can deny your application or increase your monthly payment based on your medical condition.

Some states provide additional opportunities to enroll in Medigap without answering health questions. For example, in Indiana, if you lose certain health coverage (like an employer’s retirement plan) or if your current Medigap plan is no longer available in your area, you have a guaranteed issue right to enroll in another Medigap plan. An experienced Medicare supplement provider in Knox, Indiana can help you understand if you qualify for any special exceptions like those.

Starting January 1, 2025, Indiana law has also mandated that all Medigap plans offered to people 65 and older must also be available to those under 65 with Medicare due to disability or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). This change gives younger Medicare recipients equal access to Medigap options as those over 65.

However, Indiana does not have a yearly open enrollment for Medigap outside of the first six-month window or other special guaranteed issue situations. If you want to avoid answering health questions, you should apply during your initial enrollment period or a guaranteed issue event. By consulting with an experienced Medicare supplement provider in Knox, Indiana, you can determine the best time to apply and find the right plan for your needs.

Common health questions for Medigap applicants

Medical history: You may need to answer questions about any pre-existing conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or lung conditions. Insurance companies might also ask about major illnesses like cancer, strokes, or heart attacks. If they see a high risk, they could charge you more or deny your application.

Recent hospitalizations or surgeries: If you have been in the hospital recently or had surgery, insurance companies may consider that when reviewing your application. Waiting for a major procedure could also affect your approval.

Prescription medications: Expect questions about the medications you take, their dosages, and what they are for. Insurance companies use this information to check for ongoing health problems, and some medications can raise concerns about higher risks.

Lifestyle factors: You may be asked if you use tobacco or drink alcohol, as these can affect your health and increase costs. Insurance companies also check height and weight to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI). Extreme BMI values, either underweight or obese, can impact your Medigap eligibility or pricing.

Use of medical equipment or therapies: If you use oxygen therapy, dialysis, or mobility aids like a wheelchair, insurance companies may see that as a sign of ongoing (or expensive) medical needs. This could lead to higher premiums or an outright rejection.

You should be honest about your health.

You may want to hide certain health details during your underwriting to get a better deal, but giving false information could actually get your policy canceled and your claims denied later. Since insurance companies can access your medical records, it is best to answer every question truthfully.

Looking for a Medicare Supplement Provider in Knox, Indiana?

Are you getting ready to apply for a Medigap policy? Hoping to meet with an experienced Medicare supplement provider in Knox, Indiana that can guide you through the application process? If so, our agents at Senior Care Insurance Services are the people to see. We are here to help you understand your options and find the best coverage for your healthcare needs. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.