Medical Underwriting (Medigap)
Carrier review of your health to decide whether to issue Medigap and at what rate — applies outside guaranteed-issue periods.
Full explanation
Medical underwriting is the process by which a Medigap insurer reviews your health (questionnaire, possibly medical records or attending physician statement) and decides whether to issue a policy and at what rate. Outside guaranteed-issue periods, most states allow underwriting — the carrier can decline you, charge more, or impose a waiting period for pre-existing conditions. Common decline triggers: recent cancer (within 2 years), heart attack/stroke (within 1-3 years), uncontrolled diabetes, oxygen use, COPD, MS, kidney disease. If you're considering moving from Medicare Advantage to Medigap, your health on the day you apply matters.
📎 Primary source: official source
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