Before you switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare, consider all your options.

If you decide to switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare, you will also want to consider purchasing a Medicare Supplement. You may also want to consider a standalone Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) if you don’t already have drug coverage.

Keep in mind, you will most likely have to go through medical underwriting when buying a new Medigap Plan. There are exceptions; if you are still in your 12 month period of when you first became eligible for Medicare Part A, or you are within a 12 month period of trying a Medicare Advantage Plan for the first time. There are other situations called a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). If you think you qualify for a SEP, Contact 1-800-MEDICARE.

With the exception of qualifying for a SEP, there are only two times per year you can change from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare.

• The first is during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).

The AEP is from October 15th through December 7th. Any changes to your health coverage during this time will take effect on January 1st of the following year.

• The second is during the annual Medicare Advantage Disenrollment Period (MADP).

The MAPD is from January 1st until February 14th. Any changes to your health coverage during this time will take effect the first day of the month following the date your dis-enrollment request is received.

How to drop your Medicare Advantage Plan.

You can disenroll and return to Original Medicare by calling your Medicare Advantage Plan directly. To leave a Medicare Advantage Plan and have the change reflected immediately, Medigap Planners recommends calling 1-800-MEDICARE and asking the representative to disenroll you from your current plan. By doing so, you will automatically be enrolled in Original Medicare.