How to Switch to a New Medicare Plan

Medicare is a health insurance provided by the U.S. government for people who are 65 years of age or older. In some cases, people who are younger than 65 may qualify for Medicare if they suffer from certain disabilities such as end-stage renal disease or kidney failure. Switching to a new Medicare plan can be done, but certain regulations must be followed. Everything should go smoothly if all the requirements are satisfied.

Instructions

• 1

  Compare all the Medicare programs that are available in your area when switching to a new Medicare plan. Make sure that your doctor accepts the new Medicare plan and also check to see if you have to choose your hospital or health care providers from a network.

• 2

  Switch to a new Medicare plan between Nov. 15 and Dec. 31. This is the annual "open enrollment" period when changes are allowed to be made.

• 3

  Fill out the enrollment forms and mail them back to the appropriate address. Contact your local Medicare carrier by calling the number on your Medicare card or 1-800-MEDICARE if you have questions or concerns.