Casey Fills Information Gaps and Secures Key Notification for Seniors with Marketplace Coverage New to Medicare
Following Casey’s Efforts, CMS Agrees to Provide Additional Education for Marketplace Enrollees Aging into Medicare
Washington, D.C. – Following U.S. Senator Bob Casey’s (D-PA) efforts, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has agreed to extend relief to individuals facing lifelong penalties or gaps in coverage after transitioning from Marketplace health insurance to Medicare. CMS has extended Medicare equitable relief through June 30, 2020. Further, CMS has agreed to provide these individuals with additional education regarding their transition to Medicare the month prior to their 65th birthday.
“Leaving the Marketplace to enroll in Medicare shouldn’t be a complicated maze,” said Senator Casey. “I am pleased that CMS has done right by Marketplace enrollees entering their golden years by extending the opportunity for needed relief and ensuring those turning age 65 are notified of the need to enroll in Medicare.”
Individuals transitioning from Marketplace health insurance to Medicare may experience gaps in Part B coverage or face lifelong Part B late enrollment penalties due to misinformation regarding their transition. These individuals may be eligible to receive equitable relief, where their penalty is waived or they are offered immediate Part B enrollment. This extended relief period will ensure that more seniors are included in the equitable relief program.
Read Senator Casey’s letter to CMS here.
