What is typically required to enroll in a Medigap policy outside of guaranteed issue rights?

To enroll in a Medigap policy outside of guaranteed issue rights, medical underwriting is typically required. This means that insurers can review your health history, and may ask questions or request health information before deciding whether to approve your application for coverage. This process helps the insurance company assess the risk associated with providing a policy to an individual.

When guaranteed issue rights apply, individuals can enroll in Medigap without undergoing medical underwriting, meaning they cannot be denied coverage based on their health status. However, when these rights do not apply, the usual requirement for medical underwriting comes into play, impacting the ability to obtain coverage based on health considerations.

This highlights the importance of understanding guaranteed issue rights, as they provide critical protections for those who might otherwise face challenges due to existing health issues when trying to secure supplemental Medicare coverage.