Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare Supplement
- What if I apply and change my mind?
- How soon will my coverage begin?
- If I ask for a free quote, am I obligated to buy insurance?
- Can I go to any hospital or doctor I choose?
- What are my payment options?
- What is Medicare Supplement (Medigap) insurance?
- When can I apply for Medicare Supplement insurance?
- Are these managed care (HMO) plans?
- Will I need to switch doctors if I enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan?
- Can I see a specialist whenever I want?
- If I travel out of state, will my Medicare Supplement card be accepted when I need medical care?
- What if I (or my spouse) plan to work after age 65 and continue receiving group health care benefits?
- Do I need other types of insurance beyond a Medicare Supplement policy?
- Does Medicare Supplement coverage include prescription drug benefits?
- What services are covered?
What if I apply and change my mind?
Apply today and we’ll send you an ID card and a policy to review for 30 days. Return your first premium only after you are convinced the insurance protection is right for you. Even after you send your first premium payment and your coverage is in effect, you can still change your mind. Simply return your policy and ID card within 30 days of the effective date. As long as you have not filed any claims, you will be under no obligation, and we’ll refund any premiums paid.
How soon will my coverage begin?
Almost immediately! Just send in your application. Once we process your application, we will send you an ID card, policy and a bill for your first premium. Your coverage begins once you pay your first premium. It’s that easy!
If I ask for a free quote, am I obligated to buy insurance?
Of course not. This free quote only asks for the information needed to supply you with a low rate. To get a quote we only ask for your date of birth and zip code. Even after you choose a Medicare Supplement Plan and begin the application process, you are not obligated to buy one of our exceptional Medicare Supplement plans.
Can I go to any hospital or doctor I choose?
As a Medicare supplement member, you are free to go to any doctor or hospital you choose for care. Your coverage will be recognized across the country.
What are my payment options?
You have two options available to you. You can have your bill sent to you every two months or you can have your premium payment directly withdrawn monthly from your bank account. Credit card payments are not accepted.
Paper Bills: Your bills are mailed 25 days prior to the due date. You should allow at least 10 days from the date you send your payment for the payment to post to your account.
What is Medicare Supplement (Medigap) insurance?
Basically, Medicare Supplement insurance fills the "gaps" in Medicare coverage by paying for most, if not all, Medicare coinsurance amounts and may provide coverage for Medicare's deductibles. Some plans also provide benefits for services not covered by Medicare, such as foreign travel emergency coverage.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico (BCBSNM) sells Medicare Supplement Plans A, B, F, High Deductible Plan F, and N.
When can I apply for Medicare Supplement insurance?
During your open enrollment period (up to six months after the date you are age 65 or older and you've enrolled in Medicare Part B), you may choose any Medicare Supplement plan offered in New Mexico. If you apply after your open enrollment period, you will need to complete a Health Statement.
If you become eligible for Medicare Part B benefits before age 65 because of disability or ESRD (permanent kidney failure), you are guaranteed the Medicare Supplement policy of your choice during the first six months you are age 65 and enrolled in Part B.
Are these managed care (HMO) plans?
No. All BCBSNM Medicare Supplement plans give you the freedom to use any physician and any hospital you desire. You don't need a referral from one doctor to see another.
Will I need to switch doctors if I enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan?
No, you may continue to see your own doctor. Medicare Supplement plans are convenient and flexible, giving you freedom of choice.
Can I see a specialist whenever I want?
Yes. Just remember that your out-of-pocket costs will be less if you choose a physician who accepts Medicare assignment.
If I travel out of state, will my Medicare Supplement card be accepted when I need medical care?
Yes. We understand that you may need medical care when you travel, and that's the purpose of dependable coverage with Medicare Supplement insurance. Your BCBSNM ID card is recognized and accepted by doctors, hospitals, and other facilities nationwide.
What if I (or my spouse) plan to work after age 65 and continue receiving group health care benefits?
Check with your group plan administrator. You may be able to choose either your group plan or Medicare plus Medicare Supplement coverage. If you stay with your group health care plan, a Special Enrollment Period lets you delay purchasing Part B until you need it.
Do I need other types of insurance beyond a Medicare Supplement policy?
Medicare Supplement plans are designed so that you generally do not need other similar coverage.
Does Medicare Supplement coverage include prescription drug benefits?
No, Medicare Supplement is designed to fill in the "gaps" with Medicare Plans such as Part A (which covers hospital and skilled nursing facility care) and Part B (which covers doctor bills and other medical expenses). For prescription drug coverage, you can select a separate Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan (BCBSNM offers Blue MedicareRx.
What services are covered?
It depends on the plan you select. For more information about the Medicare Supplement plans we offer, call the local sales office at 505-816-2140 or customer service at 1-800-307-8144.
Current Medicare Supplement plan members who have questions about benefits should check their Benefit Information, call Customer Service at 1-800-307-8144, or email us.
