What happens to members who have Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) and enroll in a plan other than Wellcare's Classic plan?

When members who qualify for Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) enroll in a plan that is not Wellcare's Classic plan, they will generally be required to pay a premium, despite their LIS status. The LIS is designed to assist with costs associated with certain Medicare prescription drug plans, but it does not completely eliminate premiums for all plans.

While LIS does help lower out-of-pocket costs, including premiums in some instances, it is crucial to understand that there are varying premium structures across different plans. The LIS provides a sliding scale of assistance that primarily affects cost-sharing for drugs and the premiums may still apply depending on the specific plan selected.

Thus, for members who choose not to enroll in the Classic plan, they will likely find themselves facing the standard premium requirements of their chosen plan, leading to the conclusion that they will pay a premium regardless of their LIS status.