Key Takeaways
- Colorado requires a 6-month open enrollment period for Medicare Supplement starting at age 65
- Guaranteed issue rights apply when losing other coverage or during open enrollment
- Colorado prohibits pre-existing condition waiting periods during open enrollment
- Medicare Supplement plans must be standardized (Plans A through N)
- Colorado requires clear disclosure of coverage limitations and exclusions
Colorado Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Regulations
Colorado follows federal Medicare Supplement guidelines while providing additional consumer protections for beneficiaries purchasing Medigap insurance.
Open Enrollment Period
Colorado provides a 6-month open enrollment period for Medicare Supplement:
When It Begins
The 6-month period starts:
- First day of the month you are 65 or older AND
- Enrolled in Medicare Part B
Protections During Open Enrollment
- Guaranteed issue - Must be accepted regardless of health
- No pre-existing condition exclusions
- Standard rates - Cannot be charged more for health conditions
- Any plan available - Can choose any Medigap plan A through N
Exam Tip: The 6-month open enrollment period is critical. During this time, applicants have guaranteed access to any Medigap plan without health underwriting.
Guaranteed Issue Rights
Beyond open enrollment, Colorado provides guaranteed issue rights in specific situations:
Triggering Events
| Event | Guaranteed Issue Right |
|---|---|
| Losing employer coverage | Can purchase Medigap within 63 days |
| Leaving Medicare Advantage | Can return to Medigap within 63 days |
| Medicare Advantage plan leaves area | Can purchase Medigap |
| Medigap insurer becomes insolvent | Can switch to comparable plan |
| Losing Medicaid | Can purchase Medigap |
Trial Right (Medicare Advantage)
If you leave Medigap for Medicare Advantage:
- Have 12 months to decide
- Can return to previous Medigap plan
- Or any plan from same insurer
- Guaranteed issue, no health questions
Standardized Plans
Colorado requires Medigap plans to be standardized per federal requirements:
Available Plans
| Plan | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Plan A | Basic benefits only |
| Plan B | Basic + Part A deductible |
| Plan C | Comprehensive (pre-2020 only) |
| Plan D | Similar to C, no Part B excess |
| Plan F | Most comprehensive (pre-2020 only) |
| Plan G | Like F without Part B deductible |
| Plan K | 50% cost sharing, out-of-pocket max |
| Plan L | 75% cost sharing, out-of-pocket max |
| Plan M | 50% Part A deductible |
| Plan N | Cost sharing, copays for visits |
Note: Plans C and F are only available to those eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
Rate Regulation
Colorado allows multiple rating methods:
Rating Methods Permitted
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Attained Age | Premiums increase with age |
| Issue Age | Premium based on age at purchase |
| Community Rating | Same rate regardless of age |
Rate Filing Requirements
- All rate changes must be filed with DOI
- DOI reviews for reasonableness
- Insurers must justify rate increases
- Rate information publicly available
Disclosure Requirements
Colorado requires clear disclosures:
- Outline of coverage provided
- Premium costs and rating method
- Exclusions and limitations
- Pre-existing condition rules
- Cancellation and renewal terms
How long is the open enrollment period for Medicare Supplement in Colorado?
Which Medicare Supplement plans are no longer available to people newly eligible for Medicare after January 1, 2020?