Blue Shield of California Extends "Birthday Rule" Medi-Gap Open Enrollment

Blue Shield of California (and Blue Shield Life & Health) has extended the Medicare Supplement change period through February 2013.

California is one of the few states that has a "birthday rule" with regard to those on Medicare with a Medicare Supplement or "Medi-Gap" plan.  In California, those on Medicare may choose to move to a "like or lesser" supplement plan every year on their birthday and 30 days thereafter.

Blue Shield of California currently offers an 'anytime' option for those wishing to move to a like or lesser Medicare Supplement with Blue Shield from their current Supplement plan.

Blue Shield has raised Supplement rates for the first time in 2 years effective December 1, 2012.  They also reduced the "new to Medicare" first year monthly discount from $20 per month to $15 per month and increased the discount for paying by check/savings deduction from $2 per month to $3 per month.

Blue Shield Medicare Supplement plans include the Silver Sneakers plan at no additional cost.

Dave
www.davefluker.com