Once you’ve decided which EmblemHealth Medicare Advantage plan is right for you, you’re ready to enroll.
There are specific enrollment periods and rules for when you can enroll, how often you can change the way you get Medicare, and what choices you have when you make the change.
Planning for Medicare
When can you enroll in a Medicare plan?
We are sure that you will be happy with all the benefits EmblemHealth has to offer. But should you wish to leave your plan, you may do so in one of two ways:
- If you wish to leave the plan during the Medicare Advantage Disenrollment or Special Election Periods, please send your request in writing, signed and dated to us, or
- You can call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227). If you use a TTY, please call 877-486-2048.
After you submit the request, the plan will make a decision on whether to approve or deny the disenrollment request within 10 calendar days of receipt of the request to disenroll. If you leave our plan, it may take time before your membership ends and your new Medicare coverage goes into effect. During this time, you must continue to get your medical care and prescription drugs through us.
You can continue to use your network pharmacies to get your prescriptions filled until your membership in your current plan ends. If you are hospitalized on the day your membership ends, your hospital stay will usually be covered by the plan until you’re discharged (even if you’re discharged after your new health coverage begins).
Am I eligible for Medicare at 65?
If you are almost age 65 and are retired or ready to retire, you are likely signing up for Medicare for the first time. Read our tips below to help you plan for Medicare enrollment.
You have a limited time to enroll once you reach the Medicare eligibility age, called the Initial Coverage Election Period (ICEP). This period covers three months before the month of your 65th birthday to three months after. During these seven months, you may enroll in any Medicare health insurance plan you’re eligible for.
4-6 months before you turn 65
Four to six months before turning 65, you can learn the Medicare basics: What are the parts of Medicare? What do they cover? How much will I pay? See Medicare Basics
Medicare Advantage plans give you all the benefits of Medicare Parts A and B, plus even more coverage such as eyewear, dental, hearing aids, and fitness. Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans also include Medicare Part D drug coverage in the same plan.
Check with your doctor(s) to see if they accept different types of Medicare coverage. Certain providers may not accept Medicare. Check your prescription drugs to see if they’re covered.
What should I do before my
Medicare initial enrollment period ends?
Let us help you find a Medicare Advantage plan that works for you.
Last Updated 10/01/2024
Y0026_203228_C