Medicare Supplement Insurance

Medicare Supplement Insurance, also known as, Medigap coverage is available to help Medicare recipients cover costs not addressed in their standard Medicare coverage. Following are some key things to know about these policies:

Medigap coverage is only available to Medicare recipients with both Part A and Part B coverage.

Medicare Supplement Insurance is not automatic -- you must enroll in a program and pay the premiums out of pocket. Medicare does not pay Medigap premiums.

There are 12 standard options for Medigap/Medicare Supplement Insurance. These twelve options are standard throughout the country because their plan details are set by the U.S. Government. (Note: Residents of Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin need to know that there are some variations in the Federal standards for these three states.)

The 12 options (known as A-L) offer consumers a spectrum of coverage, but not all carriers offer all plans in every state.

Carriers are governed by state protection laws, so the details of the plans may be impacted by those protections.

Although coverage options are uniform, pricing is not. Pricing may also vary from state to state.

Medicare Supplement Insurance policies will cover some of the copays, deductibles and other expenses that Medicare recipients must normally pay out of pocket. Medicare is considered the primary insurer and the Medigap coverage will pay remaining expenses according to the specifics of the plan in effect.

Spouses are not covered by Medigap policies. Each Medicare recipient must have his or her own policy.
With 12 different policy options available from different carriers at different prices, how can you find the best policy for you? Medicare's website offers information about Medigap, as well as a breakdown of what is covered in each policy, A through L. Another option is to find an insurance agent that specializes in Medicare Supplement Insurance. This agent will be familiar with the providers in your area and can help you find a policy that fits your needs and your budget.

Medicare Supplement Insurance policies will cover some of the copays, deductibles and other expenses that Medicare recipients must normally pay out of pocket. Medicare is considered the primary insurer and the Medigap coverage will pay remaining expenses according to the specifics of the plan in effect.