AHIP Practice Exam

What may motivate Mrs. Quinn to reconsider purchasing a Medicare prescription drug plan right away?

1. The risk of increased premiums for late enrollment

2. Potential for comprehensive coverage

3. Better benefits from private insurers

4. Access to exclusive medications

The correct answer is: The risk of increased premiums for late enrollment

The risk of increased premiums for late enrollment is a significant factor that may motivate Mrs. Quinn to reconsider purchasing a Medicare prescription drug plan promptly. Under Medicare guidelines, if a beneficiary does not enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan when they are first eligible, they may face a late enrollment penalty. This penalty typically results in increased premiums for each month they were eligible but did not enroll, which can accumulate over time. Understanding the financial implications of delaying enrollment can be a powerful motivator. The prospect of having to pay higher premiums indefinitely can prompt individuals to take timely action to secure their coverage. Moreover, choosing to enroll during the initial eligibility period avoids any additional costs associated with late enrollment, making it a financially prudent option for Mrs. Quinn. The other options do address benefits that Mrs. Quinn might consider appealing, such as comprehensive coverage or access to better medications, but the immediate financial consequence of increased premiums carries a pressing urgency. This sense of urgency coupled with the potential for ongoing penalties often motivates beneficiaries to act sooner rather than later in securing their health care coverage.