When I was age 65 (on 11/11/02), I got Medicare A & B, and also got
Medicare Supplement (medigap) with BlueCross-BlueShield of Texas under
the "Open Enrollment Period" of Medicare, when all such applicants
must be accepted by insurance companies.
Later, I found out I already have Group Health Coverage (Aetna PPO)
with my church mission in New Jersey. So, I cancelled BCBS Medigap on
1/17/03.
NOW, at age 67, I am quitting the employment and will soon NOT be
eligible for group health coverage.
QUESTION: Can I reapply for Medigap (medicare supplement) with any
insurance company--WITHOUT GOING THROUGH "UNDERWRITING"? Does the
Medigap Protection (Guaranteed Issue Rights)of Medicare apply in my
case? If yes, which insurance company would issue such policy WITHOUT
underwriting?
Remarks: I talked with MEDICARE and got a "Yes" answer (because I had
been under employer health coverage); I talked with BLUE CROSS and got
a "No" answer (because I was not under a Medicare supplement HMO
policy); I talked with an insurance agent and got a "NO" answer"
(because the employer did not go bankrupt or terminated coverage for
ALL its employees). Which is correct? |