The proposed bill would amend current statutes regarding Medicare supplement insurance by requiring insurers that offer such policies to individuals aged 65 and older to also provide coverage to those under 65 who are eligible for Medicare due to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Specifically, it would ensure that all benefits available to Medicare enrollees aged 65 and older are also accessible to younger enrollees with these conditions. Additionally, the bill establishes specific enrollment periods for these younger individuals, allowing them to apply for coverage under certain circumstances, such as enrolling in Medicare Part B or receiving notice of retroactive enrollment.
Furthermore, the bill prohibits insurers from charging higher premium rates to enrollees under 65 based on age, ensuring that their rates do not exceed those charged to older enrollees. It also includes provisions for individuals who may have been unable to apply for coverage during designated periods due to unavailability of applications, allowing them a six-month extension to apply once the application becomes available. Overall, these changes aim to enhance access to Medicare supplement insurance for younger individuals with serious health conditions.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 20-1133