This bill mandates that Medicare supplemental policies must cover pre-existing conditions, amending existing laws to ensure that individuals with such conditions are not denied coverage. Specifically, it removes the previous exclusion of Medicare supplement policies from the simplified application form provisions, allowing for coverage of pre-existing conditions nine months after enrollment. The bill also introduces definitions for "Medicare Advantage Plan" and "preexisting condition," clarifying that a preexisting condition is one for which medical advice or treatment was received within six months prior to the effective date of coverage.

Additionally, the bill establishes new standards for Medicare supplement policies, including the requirement for full disclosure of coverage details at the time of application and the right for applicants to return policies within 30 days for a full refund if unsatisfied. It prohibits pricing based on medical underwriting for pre-existing conditions during the Medicare Open Enrollment Period and requires that insurers offering Medicare Advantage Plans also provide Medicare Supplement or Medigap Plans. The bill aims to enhance consumer protections and ensure equitable access to necessary health coverage for Medicare beneficiaries.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 415-A:5, 451-F:1, 415-F:3, 415-F:5, 415-F:6
HB774 text: 415-A:5, 451-F:1, 415-F:3, 415-F:5, 415-F:6