Medigap Coverage is Unaffordable for Texans with Chronic Illnesses

For about one out of every six Americans enrolled in Medicare, their eligibility is triggered by a disability or diagnosis of ALS or End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), rather than age. There are no federal rules guaranteeing access to Medigap plans for these enrollees. Access to affordable Medigap plans varies widely by state with many beneficiaries having limited or no enrollment options. And to make matters worse, in some states, like Texas, Medigap providers discriminate against these patients with premiums that are out of reach, and effectively price these patients out of the market.

HB 1803 Would Fix this Problem, But Needs to be Amended

A bill moving through the Texas Legislature, HB 1803, would have enabled Texas' most vulnerable patients to access this treatment at non-discriminatory pricing by mandating that insurers providing Medigap plans to beneficiaries over the age of 65 extend the same coverage and premiums to qualifying beneficiaries under the age of 65. Unfortunately, the bill was amended on the House floor to remove this provision. The bill is now in the Senate, where it can be amended to restore this important language. It is crucial for Texas legislators to hear from patients about the benefits of HB 1803, and the need for it to be amended.

Taking Action:

The goal is to urge Texas legislators to amend and support HB 1803. Send them a personalized email. When enough constituents show they care, it can truly make a difference.