What to Do If You Move or Travel

Did you know that moving could affect your Medicare coverage? Before you start packing boxes, here is what you need to know.

If You Have a Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plan

Medicare Advantage plans are tied to a specific service area. If you move outside that area, your plan generally will not cover routine care at your new location, although emergency and urgently needed care are always covered anywhere in the U.S. 

• Moving outside your plan's service area triggers a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) 

• Your SEP allows you to switch plans or return to Original Medicare 

• New coverage typically starts the first day of the month after your plan receives your request 

If You Have Original Medicare (Parts A & B) and Medicare Supplement:

Original Medicare covers you at any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare, anywhere in the United States including all 50 states, D.C., Puerto Rico, and U.S. territories. If you also have a Medicare Supplement policy, that flexibility travels with you too. 

If You Have a Part D Drug Plan:

Part D plans also have service areas. After a move, confirm your current drug plan still covers your new zip code. If it does not, your move may trigger a SEP for drug coverage as well.

For Snowbirds and Frequent Travelers:

• Check whether your plan covers out-of-area non-emergency care before you leave

• Some Medicare Advantage plans offer nationwide or out-of-network options, typically at a higher cost

• Original Medicare and Medicare Supplement plans generally offer more flexibility for those who travel or split time between states

What About International Travel?

• Original Medicare generally does not cover care outside the U.S.

• Some Medicare Supplement plans include emergency coverage abroad

• Some Medicare Advantage plans may offer emergency and urgently needed care internationally as an extra benefit so check your plan documents

We are Here to Help

Do not wait until after you have moved to review your Medicare. Call your SGIA Benefit Consultant before you move to compare plans in your new area and make sure your coverage has no lapses. Call us today at 888-284-3314 or visit sgiamedicare.com.