Originally published January 8, 2013, last updated February 20, 2014

Medicare Advantage Disenrollment Period Explained

Now that calendars have officially been changed to 2013, you, as consumers, have some important decisions to make about your Medicare coverage.

The Medicare Advantage Disenrollment Period (MADP) runs from January 1 to February 14. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can dis-enroll from a Medicare Advantage Plan.  Medicare Advantage plans may have Prescription Drug (Part D) coverage included and these plans are commonly referred to as MAPD plans. 

Upon dis-enrolling, you have the opportunity to return to Original Medicare (Parts A &B) and enroll in a Medicare Supplement policy.  You will also have the opportunity to enroll in a stand-alone Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan (PDP). It is important to note however, that if you are now enrolled in an MAPD and then enroll in a stand-alone PDP during this period you will be automatically dis-enrolled from your current MAPD and will not have the option of enrolling in another Medicare Advantage Plan (with some limited exceptions) until the next Annual Election Period which starts October 15th.  By dis-enrolling from your current MAPD plan and choosing to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan, you may be subject to answering health questions to qualify for coverage.

Sound confusing?  Please call our Benefit Advisor’s at 866-800-5566 to assist you in making the right decision!