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
  C4A Annual Meeting
  and Allied Conference

Buyer Beware

If you decide to buy a policy, you should know that you have certain rights and protections. These rights are important because they assure that you are treated fairly when you decide to purchase a Medigap policy. Your rights in California include, but are not limited to:

• The right to return a Medigap policy within 30 days of purchase for any reason and receive a full refund.
• The right to purchase a Medigap policy during your Open Enrollment Period or a Guaranteed Issue Period without medical underwriting and without any waiting period for pre-existing conditions when you had previous coverage.
• The right to accurate comparisons of your insurance coverage options.
• The right to truthful and straightforward sales and advertising from Medigap insurance agents and companies.

If you have a concern about your Medigap coverage, sale, or other related issue, call the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) at 1-800-434-0222. HICAP Counselors are trained to assist in restoring coverage, obtaining refunds, and working with the proper regulatory agency to resolve any problems related to a Medigap sale. HICAP services are free and confidential.