Information Regarding Medicare Advantage Plans

The Connecticut Insurance Department (CID) is reminding consumers over the age of 65, or with a qualifying disability, that Medicare Open Enrollment is underway and continues through December 7. This is the time for individuals to review their current coverage and make changes to their Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug plans for the upcoming year. There are free services available in Connecticut to help people make informed choices about their Medicare coverage.

The CID is also aware of growing concerns related to Medicare Advantage (MA) plan enrollment, availability, and marketing practices. Some consumers have reported confusion or difficulty navigating plan options and understanding differences in coverage.

Medicare Advantage plans are regulated at the federal level by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The Connecticut Insurance Department does not have regulatory authority over these plans.

If you are enrolled in or are considering a Medicare Advantage plan, here are a few important tips:

• Review plan options carefully to ensure they meet your health and financial needs.
• Be cautious of aggressive or misleading marketing tactics.
• Use official Medicare resources for accurate information at www.medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
• Seek guidance from trusted, unbiased sources when comparing plans.

Connecticut residents can also contact CHOICES, the state’s free Medicare counseling program, for one-on-one assistance. CHOICES is a partnership among the Department of Aging and Disability Services, Connecticut’s five Area Agencies on Aging, and the Center for Medicare Advocacy. Counselors provide free, unbiased education and support to Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers. To reach CHOICES, call 1-800-994-9422.

Consumers may also seek support directly from Medicare at 1-800-633-4227.

Consumers may also contact the Office of the Healthcare Advocate (OHA) at 1-866-466-4446 for help navigating healthcare coverage issues.

For questions about other types of insurance regulated at the state level, please contact our Consumer Affairs Unit at (860) 297-3900 or insurance@ct.gov, or visit our website.

The information in this consumer alert is provided for informational and educational purposes only. The information should not be construed as coverage, legal, medical or other professional advice. Nothing on this site is intended to be used for medical diagnosis, treatment or substitute for professional medical advice. Policies and plans contain exclusions and limitations, and product availability may vary by location. For availability, costs and complete details of coverage, please contact your insurance producer or insurance company. The CID makes no representations or warranties that the materials in this notice are suitable for your needs, are complete, timely, reliable, accurate or free from errors, inaccuracies or typographical mistakes.