Lock In
Lock in is the general rule that Medicare Advantage and Part D enrollees cannot change plans except during defined periods such as the Annual Election Period or a qualifying special enrollment period. It stabilizes plan enrollment during the plan year.
Definition
Lock in is the general rule that Medicare Advantage and Part D enrollees cannot change plans except during defined periods such as the Annual Election Period or a qualifying special enrollment period. It stabilizes plan enrollment during the plan year.
Why it matters
Because most beneficiaries are locked in outside specific windows, plan selection during open enrollment carries year-long consequences.
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