This bill amends Section 27-18.2-3 of the General Laws to provide guaranteed issue rights for Medicare recipients applying for a Medicare supplement plan. The bill states that the issuance or coverage of any Medicare supplement plan would not be conditioned on the medical or health status or receipt of health care by the applicant, and no insurer shall perform individual medical underwriting in connection with the issuance of a policy. This provision applies to individuals enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, regardless of age, who are applying for a Medicare supplement plan.

The bill also includes other provisions related to Medicare supplement insurance policies, such as prohibiting duplicate benefits provided by Medicare, not excluding or limiting benefits for preexisting conditions, and establishing specific standards for policy provisions. The bill also grants the commissioner the authority to adopt regulations to establish minimum standards for premium rates, benefits, claims payment, marketing practices, and compensation arrangements for Medicare supplement policies and certificates. The bill would take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
583  SUB A as amended: 27-18.2-3
583  SUB A: 27-18.2-3
583: 27-18.2-3