Can I Switch From Plan F to Plan G Without Underwriting?

Whenever new plans and benefits pop up, we get floods of questions about what it takes to switch. And we can’t blame you! We love saving people money and getting them the benefits they deserve.

To qualify for different Medicare Supplement plans, such as Plan F or Plan G, consumers commonly have to go through a process called medical underwriting. These medical qualification questions are nobody’s favorite, but we can help you figure out when to expect them.  

What is underwriting?

Medical underwriting is used by insurance companies to determine whether or not to offer you coverage, and at what price to provide it, depending on your health status.

Medicare Supplement Insurance, a separate plan from traditional Medicare that fills in the gaps in your coverage, commonly utilizes underwriting when offering approvals for different consumers.  

These questions include but are not limited to:  

• Height, weight and BMI guidelines
• Prescription reports
• Interview regarding any health concerns  

Medical underwriting questions essentially offer the insurance company a look into their future as your provider. If it looks like you might be needing a whole lot of medical care soon, certain companies may not approve you for coverage.

However, each insurance company handles the process of underwriting differently, so don’t let it scare you! Even if you have health concerns, we will guide you through the entire process and ensure that you are insured.  

Read More: What Health Questions Do I Have to Pass for Medigap Insurance?  

Does Medicare Plan G require underwriting?  

As a general rule, yes. Lots of Medicare Supplement plans require medical underwriting in order for a customer to be accepted for coverage.  

Because Medigap is regulated on a state and federal level, different requirements will be issued depending on where you live. Additionally, the exact process will differ per company.

While this may sound confusing, you have nothing to worry about. Medicare Allies is on your side, which means we can help walk you through the process so you know what you can expect moving forward.

Is Medicare Plan G or Medicare Plan F better?  

First thing's first: you only have the ability to choose Medigap Plan F if you were already 65 years old before January 1, 2020. Because of a new federal regulation, Medicare Supplement Plan F is getting phased out. This means that only those who would have qualified before the new regulation can access it.  

If that’s you, it’s important to understand the key difference between Medicare Plan G and Medicare Plan F. Both provide 100% coverage with an 80% foreign travel exchange up to plan limits.

The only real difference between two plans is that Plan F has Medicare Part B deductible coverage that Medigap Plan G does not.

Medicare Part B generally covers medically necessary doctors’ services and preventive tests. This includes but is not limited to:  

• Blood tests
• Certain oral drugs  
• Anesthesia
• Certain medical equipment  
• Artificial eyes and limbs
• And more!

Should I switch from Medicare Plan G to Medicare Plan F?

Long story short: It depends.

Depending on your location and carrier options, Plan F is a great pick. It covers the part B deductible that Plan G doesn’t, and as long as you can find it for a reasonably low payment, this may be a great plan option for you.  

If you are part of the age group that can access Medigap Plan F, and your deductible for Medicare Part B services is giving you trouble, then it may be time to talk to a trusted agent about your options regarding a switch.

Should I switch from Medicare Plan F to Medicare Plan G?  

Again, it depends on your personal situation.  

Because Medigap Plan F has the added benefit of Medicare Plan B deductible coverage, this switch would depend on how likely you are to need that extra coverage.  

Plan G is usually a lot less pricey than Plan F month to month, so your carrier’s rates and your personal circumstances will play a big part in whether or not it is worth it for you to switch to Plan G.  

If you have Plan F and are finding yourself wondering how to get your rates down and are healthy enough to shop around without worrying too much about underwriting, it may be time to check out Plan G. Contact an agent today to learn more.  

Do I have to pass underwriting to switch?  

Most often, the answer is yes.  

For six months when you first become eligible for Medigap at the age of 65 or enroll in Medicare Part B (whichever comes later!), otherwise known as your Medigap open enrollment period, you are eligible for a one-time pass to buy any Medicare Supplement plan without having to go through underwriting.  

However, once you pass that period of time, you must be able to pass a carrier’s medical underwriting question to switch or start a Medigap plan.  

There are a few states that allow switching your Medicare Supplement plan without underwriting, so give us a call to see if you are located in one of them.  

Conclusion

Medicare Supplement is a great resource for many, and we’ll be sure to find you the best plan for your needs.  

Timing is everything, and Medicare Allies will ensure you don’t miss critical deadlines. Just be sure to contact us before you turn 65!

You will reach a licensed insurance agent. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare.