Medicare Supplement Plans, also known as Medigap, is a way for beneficiaries to reduce the amount they owe when paying medical bills. It’s a unique form of coverage that can save thousands per year, but beneficiaries must know how to use it properly. One of the biggest parts of Medigap is selecting the right policy. Before you do that, here are some of the Medigap basics.
There are 10 standardized plans available in most states; each one is identified by the letters A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N. The plans differ in coverage but can greatly reduce (or eliminate) your out-of-pocket costs when you see your doctor. Medigap is only available for those enrolled in Original Medicare. If you currently have Medicare Advantage and would like to enroll in Medigap, you’ll need to disenroll during the proper enrollment period — and help is available if you need it.
Talk with Us to see if Medigap may be the right option for you.
If you have Medicare, you may be wondering why you would enroll in more coverage. Medigap policies vary significantly based upon which policy you choose and while all of the policies may reduce the amount you owe on medical bills some policies will not have extra benefits that may be important to you while others may.
Medigap covers a percentage (or all) of some of the costs Medicare expects beneficiaries to pay out-of-pocket. It’s important to note that Medicare and Medigap are separate and they require two different policies. If you enroll in Medicare, you won’t be automatically enrolled in Medigap.
Deductibles, coinsurance and copayments are all out-of-pocket costs that Medicare beneficiaries will need to pay for. While Medicare covers about 80% of your hospital and medical bills, supplemental insurance can pay for the other 20% — which could really help if you have a year of bad health. If you travel often, own multiple homes, or plan to visit family in different states, consider a Medigap policy that you can use at any provider who accepts Medicare patients!
If you’re wanting to enroll in Medigap, you’ll need to do so as soon as possible once you are enrolled in Original Medicare and are 65. There is a Medigap Open Enrollment Period that begins once this happens and lasts for six months. During this period, you can enroll for any of the supplement plans without being turned down and denied coverage. However, if you miss this period, insurance companies can turn you down or charge you more for premiums based on your medical history.
Let me put my experience and expertise to work for you to earn your trust. If you want to partner with a detail oriented, experienced professional, give me a call today at (781) 879-9745 or e-mail me at mikemedicarematchmaker@gmail.com. I am located in Western New York and will proudly serve you!
Not affiliated with the U.S. government or federal Medicare program. I do not sell all carriers in the service area of Western New York. I do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently I represent 9 organizations which offer 112 products in Western New York. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information.
