Major storms in Nevada lead to additional Medicare enrollment opportunities

Governor Lombardo issued a severe weather state of emergency

Because of the major storms hitting Northwestern Nevada in early March, 2023, Governor Lombardo issued severe weather state of emergency proclamations on March 10^th and 11^th covering 14 of Nevada’s 17 counties. These are the counties impacted by the state of emergency:

• • Carson City

• • Churchill County

• • Douglass County

• • Esmerelda County

• • Elko County

• • Eureka County

• • Humboldt County

• • Lyon County

• • Mineral County

• • Nye County

• • Storey County

• • Washoe County

• • White Pine County

• • Yomba Shoshone Tribe

These state of emergency proclamations added several protections for residents in affected areas, including an extended deadline to change Medicare Advantage plans.

Medicare members are eligible for emergency special enrollment period

Normally, Medicare Advantage members cannot change their plans after March 31^st. But as a result of the state of emergency, many Medicare members are now eligible for a special enrollment period that will allow for a one-time Medicare Advantage Plan change.

To be eligible for changing Medicare outside of open enrollment, members must meet the following criteria:

• • Live in a county or area where the emergency has been declared

• • Did not make a plan change during the 2023 Medicare Advantage open enrolment period (January 1^st through March 31^st)

If you’d like to take advantage of this special enrollment period, you’ll need to make your plan change by May 31^st, 2023.

HBA can help you change Medicare plans

Severe weather is a serious issue. Make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency. If you qualify for this special special enrollment period to change Medicare plans — or if you’re unsure — contact the professionals at Health Benefits Associates. We’ll help you identify the health coverage option to suit your unique needs and situation, so you can enjoy more peace of mind.