This year’s Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP) began during turbulent times. Several major hurricanes – Harvey, Irma, Maria, and Nate – shook the Caribbean and United States coastline, and wildfires have disrupted California. In light of the many challenges people affected by the disasters continue to deal with, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has established a Medicare Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for Medicare beneficiaries in those areas.

The SEP opportunities are available to impacted counties in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Texas, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

CMS’ Decision

Individuals who reside, or on a specified date, resided in an area affected by a hurricane or wildfire in 2017 (link above), will be eligible for an SEP that extends the 2018 Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period (AEP) through December 31, 2017. This special enrollment period will allow Medicare Advantage (MA) enrollees affected by these natural disasters to enroll, switch Medicare health or prescription drug plans, or disenroll and return to Original Medicare, and be in the market for a Medicare Supplement insurance policy.

In addition, the extended AEP is available to those who rely on help making healthcare decisions from friends or family members who live in the affected area. Individuals may contact 1‑800‑MEDICARE to request disenrollment using this special enrollment opportunity.

CMS will continue to examine the circumstances in the areas affected by these disasters and will consider taking action that reaches beyond December 31, 2017, if needed. United American will continue to keep you updated regarding any additional changes.

Sources: www.cms.gov/Newsroom/ | www.fema.gov/disasters