It's always nice to have a choice of what health care plans you want, but your needs and geographic location may change over time. Opting into and out of Medicare supplements may give you acid indigestion unless you speak to a knowledgeable insurance agent.

Things are complicated enough in today's world without also having to worry about what you have for health care coverage. Or maybe more to the point, what you don't have. That's a whole can of worms itself and so are the provisions for opt in and opt out. While Texas health insurance isn't easy to understand, it's at least somewhat flexible to suit your health insurance needs.

Currently (and this seems to be subject to change without much notice) you may opt into Medicare supplements between November 15th of the prior year and December 31st, at which time you're then locked in until the next opt out period. This might sound simple enough, but it isn't. Now come the exceptions to the rules. You had to know that Texas health insurance has a myriad of exceptions to fit various situations.

Opt in times may vary. For instance, if you are already in a plan then you may opt into Medicare supplements between January and March rather than the 15th of November to December 31st. Or, if you are leaving a group health plan or moving to a new service area, opt in and out times will be different.

Confusing to say the least. You won't find a lot of this type of information on any Texas health website either. This is the type of information only agents know well enough to explain. Remember to ask a lot of questions because the agent you speak with knows his carriers' policies inside out, and can cut through the confusing jargon for you.

If you're shaking your head in bewilderment, reach for the phone and speak to a Texas health insurance agent who knows his stuff. For each rule of thumb there is an exception or two or three, and only the agent is going to know that and be able to explain your options to you in plain English.