Medicare Supplements, also known as Medigap, are private health insurance plans designed to cover the gaps in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). Here’s an overview of how they work and what they offer:

What is Medigap?

Medigap policies help pay for some of the healthcare costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, such as:

• Copayments
• Coinsurance
• Deductibles

Key Features of Medigap Policies

1. Standardization: Medigap policies are standardized, meaning that each policy offers the same basic benefits regardless of the insurance company selling it. There are ten standardized plans labeled A through N, though not all states offer all plans.
2. Eligibility: To buy a Medigap policy, you must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B.
3. Enrollment Period: The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which is a six-month period that starts the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Part B. During this period, you have a guaranteed issue right to buy any Medigap policy sold in your state.
4. Monthly Premium: You pay a monthly premium to the private insurance company in addition to the Part B premium you pay to Medicare.
5. Coverage Outside the U.S.: Some Medigap policies offer coverage for medical care outside the United States.
6. Renewable Policies: As long as you pay the premium, the insurance company cannot cancel your Medigap policy, even if you have health problems.

What Medigap Does Not Cover

Medigap policies generally do not cover:

• Long-term care (like in a nursing home)
• Vision or dental care
• Hearing aids
• Eyeglasses
• Private-duty nursing
• Prescription drugs (which is covered under Medicare Part D)

How to Choose a Medigap Policy

1. Compare Plans: Look at the different benefits offered by each standardized plan (A through N).
2. Check Costs: Since costs can vary between companies for the same plan, it’s essential to compare prices.
3. Consider Your Needs: Evaluate your healthcare needs and budget to find a plan that best suits you.

Differences Between Medigap and Medicare Advantage

• Medigap: Supplements Original Medicare by covering gaps and does not restrict you to a network of providers.
• Medicare Advantage (Part C): An alternative to Original Medicare that often includes additional benefits like prescription drug coverage, vision, and dental, but typically requires you to use a network of doctors and hospitals.

Understanding these aspects can help you make an informed decision about whether a Medigap policy is right for you.

I represent companies such as; Aetna, Anthem, Blue Shield, Cigna, Health Net, Humana and UnitedHealthcare.