NY versus NJ

[neville clynes]

I live in NY and will state what is the case here. I can mention differences I do know in NJ but details should come from members there.

In NY we pay higher premiums for the two real privleges. One is tha when we change MEDIGAP plans, we are NOT subject to new underwriting. If we begin to accumulate new illnesses and therefore medical cost risks, the insurance company can not take into account these new risks.We get the same premium as anyone else our age. 

Additionally in NY we can switch MEDIGAP plans as many times as we want during anytime in the year. There is a caveat that any "pre existing" conditions would not be covered for 6 months, BUT ONLY if they were not covered by the previous plan.

In NJ, and as well in 35 other states, if you switch plans , you are suscpetible to new unnderwriting and your rates may rise. It would be helpful for Columbia's administration and for other NJ residents to hear some anecdotes on how much these rates could rise. 

Of course no specific medical information should be detailed. 

In addition, I believe switching plans is only allowed at proscribed periods of the year in NJ.

I have not looked closely at how much NJ residents save on premiums for these differences . 

It is important to realize that the administration has admitted they were not fully cognizant of these restrictions on NJ retirees when they made the current contractual agreements with VIA. (see conversations under "problems wit VIA")