Are consumers who voluntarily switch from one Medicare Supplement company to another entitled to guaranteed issue?

When consumers voluntarily switch from one Medicare Supplement company to another, they are generally not entitled to guaranteed issue rights. Guaranteed issue means that a person can buy a Medigap plan without medical underwriting, regardless of their health status. This usually applies in specific situations, such as when someone loses their current coverage through no fault of their own, like moving out of a service area or a plan being discontinued.

For a voluntary switch, unless there are specific circumstances that warrant it, the insurance company can deny coverage or impose waiting periods based on pre-existing conditions. This means that the consumer might face underwriting requirements, which can make it difficult for individuals with health issues to find a new plan. Therefore, when switching companies on their own accord, consumers do not typically have the protections that guarantee issue rights provide.