DOI Announces Options for Medicare Eligible Idahoans Losing Medicaid
Wednesday March 22, 2023Contact: Julie Robinson, 208-334-4312
julie.robinson@doi.idaho.gov
BOISE, ID (March 22, 2023) –The Public Health Emergency permitted Idaho consumers who would have qualified for Medicare to remain enrolled in Medicaid. Consequently, some eligible consumers may have missed the guaranteed issue period for obtaining a Medicare Supplement plan in Idaho.
The Idaho Department of Insurance announces, in order to protect Medicare-eligible Idahoans access to coverage, Bulletin 23-04.
This bulletin directs insurers writing Medicare supplement policies to guarantee issue Medicare supplement policies in Idaho to applicants who would have been and are Medicare-eligible.
As part of the ending of the public health emergency process, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW) will be re-determining eligibility for Medicaid for April 2023 and beyond. Idahoans are encouraged to review IDHW notices carefully.
“I strongly encourage consumers no longer eligible for Medicaid to work with a licensed local insurance agent or SHIBA to consider their health insurance plan options.” said Department of Insurance Director Dean L. Cameron.
Idaho’s Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) representatives at the Idaho Department of Insurance are available to talk with Medicare beneficiaries and provide free Medicare information, including reviewing Medicare coverage options.
Call toll free (800) 247-4422 to speak with a SHIBA counselor. SHIBA also offers monthly Medicare workshops. To register for an upcoming Medicare workshop, please contact the SHIBA Helpline at (800) 247-4422.
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About the Department of Insurance
The Idaho Department of Insurance has been regulating the business of insurance in Idaho since 1901. The mission of the Department is to serve and protect Idahoans by equitably, effectively and efficiently administering the Idaho Insurance Code and the International Fire Code. For more information, please visit us at doi.idaho.gov or email us at consumeraffairs@doi.idaho.gov.