Individuals who became eligible for Medicare prior to age 65 cannot...

Individuals who became eligible for Medicare prior to age 65, typically due to a qualifying disability, face specific rules regarding their ability to return to Original Medicare. The 12J option you mentioned refers to a specific enrollment circumstance that allows certain individuals to make changes to their Medicare coverage. However, this option does not apply to those who are under 65 and became eligible for Medicare because of a disability.

The correct response is supported by the nature of the enrollment periods and the eligibility requirements attached to them. Individuals who are disabled and have been enrolled in Medicare automatically after 24 months typically remain in that coverage unless they actively choose to switch their plans during specified enrollment periods. Once they are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan or another healthcare coverage, their ability to return to Original Medicare is not as flexible as it is for individuals who are 65 and older.

In contrast, individuals eligible for Medicare at age 65 generally have broader options regarding their enrollment period and plan switching. The restrictions are more stringent for those who qualify due to disability. This distinction helps clarify why the notion of the 12J option specifically does not apply to them.