The bill amends the Medicare Supplement Act to introduce a requirement for issuers of Medicare supplement policies to provide an annual open enrollment period for eligible policyholders. An "eligible policyholder" is defined as a Medicare beneficiary aged sixty-five or older who is insured under a Medicare supplement policy. The open enrollment period will begin on the first day of the eligible policyholder's birthday month and will last for at least sixty days. During this time, eligible policyholders can purchase any Medicare supplement policy available in the state without facing denial or discrimination based on their health status or medical conditions.

Additionally, the bill mandates that issuers notify eligible policyholders at least thirty days, but no more than sixty days, before the start of their open enrollment period. This notification must include the dates of the enrollment period, the rights provided under the new section, and any changes to the current Medicare supplement policy or premium adjustments. The bill aims to enhance access to Medicare supplement policies for seniors, ensuring they have the opportunity to secure coverage without facing barriers related to their health.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 59A-24A-3