Which guideline must policies adhere to when advertised or issued as a Medicare supplement policy?

Medicare supplement policies, commonly referred to as Medigap policies, are designed to fill the gaps in coverage left by Medicare. Therefore, these policies must adhere to the guidelines established by Medicare itself. This is crucial because Medicare sets the standard for what these supplementary policies can provide, ensuring they offer benefits that complement Medicare coverage and prevent deceptive practices.

When policies are marketed and sold as Medicare supplement plans, they must include specific features, such as the coverage limits and benefits that align directly with Medicare’s offerings. This adherence ensures that consumers receive accurate information and understand what additional coverage they are purchasing, which ultimately aids in protecting their financial interests.

The other options present various considerations but do not hold the same authority or requirement. For instance, while the insured may have certain agreements with an issuer, these are not governing standards for how the policies are structured. Similarly, options referencing actions by the Commissioner or Medigap Part B do not capture the primary regulatory standard established by Medicare, which directly influences a Medicare supplement policy's design and function. Thus, adhering to Medicare’s guidelines is essential for the legitimacy and effectiveness of these insurance products.