Medicare Supplement Insurance, also called Medigap, helps pay some of the out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare does not cover.
These plans are offered by private insurance companies and work alongside Original Medicare (Part A and Part B).
What is Medicare Supplement Insurance?
Medicare Supplement Insurance is designed to help cover expenses such as:
- Copayments
- Coinsurance
- Deductibles
Medicare supplement plans are standardized by the federal government, which means the benefits for each plan type are the same regardless of the insurance company offering it.
For example, Plan G benefits are the same from one carrier to another, although premiums may differ.
How Medicare Supplement Plans Work
With a Medicare Supplement plan:
- Original Medicare pays its share of approved medical costs
- Your Medigap plan helps pay the remaining covered costs
You can generally see any doctor or hospital in the United States that accepts Medicare.
What Medicare Supplement Plans Typically Cover
Depending on the plan selected, Medigap may help pay for:
- Medicare Part A hospital coinsurance
- Medicare Part B coinsurance
- Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
- Hospice care coinsurance Blood transfusions
- Foreign travel emergency coverage (limited)
Coverage varies by plan type.
What Medicare Supplement Does NOT Cover
Most Medicare Supplement plans do not include:
- Prescription drug coverage
- Dental care
- Vision services
- Hearing aids
- Long-term care
Many people enroll in a separate Medicare Part D prescription drug plan for medication coverage.
Medicare supplement enrollment periods
This begins when:
- You are age 65 or older
- AND enrolled in Medicare Part B
- Birthday month rule (for some states)
During this period, you generally cannot be denied coverage due to health conditions.
Outside of this enrollment window, medical underwriting may apply in many states.
Get Help Choosing a Plan
Medicare Supplement plans vary by county and carrier. A licensed broker can help you compare options and find a plan that fits your healthcare needs and budget.