Question

Chance turned 65 on March 15th, and enrolled in Original Medicare alone. Today is August 20th, 2016 and Chance decides that he wants to enroll in a MAPD.

What enrollment period for a MAPD is he in as of today?
When is the earliest his plan can take effect?

Answer 1

The earliest Chance's Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD) plan can take effect is January 1st of the year following his enrollment during the Annual Election Period, which runs from October 15th to December 7th.

Step-by-step explanation:

Chance turned 65 on March 15th and enrolled in Original Medicare alone. If today is August 20th, 2016, and Chance decides to enroll in a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD) plan, the earliest his plan can take effect is during the Annual Election Period (AEP), which runs from October 15th to December 7th. Because the AEP is the designated time for individuals to make changes to their Medicare plans, the soonest Chance's MAPD plan will become active is January 1st of the following year.

In 1965, Medicare was established as a federal system of health insurance for people aged 65 and older. This program has significantly impacted the elderly, providing essential health coverage to a population previously underinsured. The Medicare Prescription Drug and Modernization Act of 2003 expanded this coverage to include prescription drug benefits, creating a more comprehensive health-care solution for seniors.