Getting Medigap Can Be a Challenge for Those on Traditional Medicare

If you're on traditional Medicare, buying a supplemental "Medigap" policy may seem like a no-brainer. After all, Medigap helps pay co-payments, deductibles and other costs that Medicare doesn't cover. But getting access to these policies--and determining which plan is right for you--may be anything but simple.

You're guaranteed access to a supplemental policy during your Medigap open enrollment period--the six-month period that starts when you are 65 or older and also enrolled in Part B. Many people who miss that window do not have "guaranteed issue" rights, meaning Medigap insurers can charge them extra based on their health status or deny coverage altogether. That's a potential headache for the millions of people on traditional Medicare who lack supplemental coverage as well as Medicare Advantage enrollees looking to switch to traditional Medicare and pick up Medigap.

The Medigap hurdles complicate decision-making during the, which extends through December 7. Open enrollment is a time for seniors to reassess their coverage and switch between traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans offered by private insurers--but many who prefer traditional Medicare may find they're effectively locked out of the Medigap market.