Final answer:
During the Medicare Supplement open enrollment period, consumers cannot be charged more due to pre-existing health conditions. This period of guaranteed issue rights protects consumers from higher premiums or denial of coverage based on their health status.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the Medicare Supplement (Medigap) open enrollment period, consumers cannot be charged more because of present or past health conditions. This period begins the first month a consumer turns 65 and enrolls in Medicare Part B, and lasts for six months. Prior to the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), insurance companies often used pre-existing medical conditions to determine if someone was high risk, which could result in higher healthcare costs or denial of coverage. Since the ACA, these practices have been significantly reformed. It's important to note, outside of this open enrollment period, beneficiaries may be subject to medical underwriting which could affect their premium costs or coverage eligibility.