During Medicare Supplement open enrollment, can an insurer consider past health conditions for premium rates?

During Medicare Supplement open enrollment, insurers are prohibited from considering past health conditions when determining premium rates. This enrollment period, typically lasting six months, allows individuals who are 65 or older or eligible for Medicare due to disability to apply for a Medigap policy without any health-related barriers.

The reasoning behind this rule is to protect consumers by ensuring they have access to coverage regardless of their medical history during this designated timeframe. This means that any applicant can obtain a policy without the risk of higher premiums or denial based on pre-existing health issues, promoting a more equitable healthcare system for seniors.

It's important to note that outside this open enrollment period, insurers may indeed factor in health status to set premium rates, which underscores the significance of taking advantage of the open enrollment window.