Highlighted Topics

• 2008-09 Governor’s Budget—California Department of Aging (CDA)
• Be Prepared California
• Get Healthy California
• Health Care Reform
• Long-Term Care Guide
• Security Awareness Training
• Senate Recognizes Department of Aging for Health Promotion in Workplace

Latest News

• 2008 Economic Stimulus Rebate Information
  • Scams - An IRS Warning
• Tips to Prevent Heat Related Illness
• Medicare Fraud Toolkit to Assist Consumers in Protecting Their Medicare Benefits from Fraud and Abuse.
• Do you know, after February 17th, 2009, all full power television stations will broadcast in digital signals only?
  
• Information for Homeowners Facing Foreclosure

Upcoming Events

• Nov. 17-20, 2008
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Medigap Help - FAQ

Question 1. I have a Medigap and am thinking about doubling my protection by buying another one. Is this a good idea?
Answer 1. No. If you have a Medigap, buying another one will simply duplicate the coverage you already have. In fact, unless you are planning to replace the existing plan, it is illegal for a company to sell you a second Medigap.

Question 2. I just qualified for Medi-Cal. Do I need to keep my Medigap policy?
Answer 2. You generally do not need a Medigap policy when you are on Medi-Cal. You can have your Medigap policy placed on hold for up to 24 months if you think you will be on Medi-Cal for a short period of time or if you think that you might lose your Medi-Cal eligibility.

Question 3. I have Medi-Cal and an agent wants to sell a Medigap policy to me. Do I need one?
Answer 3. No. It is illegal for an agent to sell a Medigap policy to you if you are eligible for Medi-Cal.

Question 4. I am enrolled in a Medicare health maintenance organization (HMO). Should I buy a Medigap policy to help pay my health care costs?
Answer 4. No. It is against the law for an agent or company to sell you a Medigap policy unless you have decided to disenroll from your HMO.

Question 5. I joined an HMO and still have a Medigap policy. Should I keep it?
Answer 5. You can keep it for a few months until you know if you want to stay in the HMO. The Medigap policy won’t pay benefits, but if you decide to leave the HMO later you may not be able to get another Medigap if you have existing health conditions.

Question 6. When is the best time to buy a Medigap policy?
Answer 6. The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during your Open Enrollment Period, or during a Guaranteed Issue Period. Agents and companies are required by State and federal law to sell you a plan during both of these periods. Purchasing a Medigap during one of these periods ensures that you can buy the best plan at the best price.

Question 7. I bought my Medigap policy in 1988. An agent is telling me that my policy is too old and needs to be replaced. Should I buy a new Medigap?
Answer 7. That depends on the benefits in your policy and the premium you are paying. Some older policies have prescription drug benefits that are better than the Medigap policies sold today. Contact your local HICAP for help in comparing the benefits in your current policy with newer policies.