Medicare Supplement plans (Medigap) fill in the gaps when using original Medicare. With original Medicare the beneficiary is responsible for all co-pays, co-insurance and deductibles. With a supplement plan, these can be taken care of. These plans are administered through private insurance carriers. There is a monthly premium associated with these plans.
Qualifying for Medicare Supplement
Initial enrollment period.
When a Medicare beneficiary is initially eligible for Medicare that person can enroll into a Medicare Supplement without having to go through medical underwriting. However, if a newly eligible Medicare beneficiary decides on a Medicare Advantage plan first but changes his or her mind later down the road then that person will be subject to medical underwriting. During underwriting, the insurance company makes an assessment of the beneficiary's health status and medical history to determine if they can offer a Medicare Supplement plan and at what premium rate.
Note: You cannot be on Medicaid and a Medicare Supplement at the same time.
Medigap Open Enrollment
You get a 6 month "Medigap Open Enrollment" period, which starts the first month you have Medicare Part B and you're 65 or older. During this time, you can enroll in any Medigap policy and the insurance company can't deny you coverage due to pre-existing health problems. After this period, you may not be able to buy a Medigap policy, or it may cost more. Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period is a one-time enrollment. It doesn't repeat every year, like the Medicare Open Enrollment Period.
Medigap Plans
| Plan | Key Benefits Covered |
|---|---|
| Plan A | Basic Benefits |
| Plan B | Basic BenefitsPart A Deductible |
| Plan C | Basic BenefitsSkilled NursingPart A DeductiblePart B DeductibleForeign Travel |
| Plan D | Basic BenefitsSkilled NursingPart A DeductibleForeign Travel |
| Plan F | Basic BenefitsSkilled NursingPart A DeductiblePart B DeductiblePart B ExcessForeign Travel |
| Plan G | Basic BenefitsSkilled NursingPart A DeductiblePart B ExcessForeign Travel |
| Plan K | Basic Benefits (50%)Skilled Nursing (50%)Part A Deductible (50%)Out-of-Pocket Limit |
| Plan L | Basic Benefits (75%)Skilled Nursing (75%)Part A Deductible (75%)Out-of-Pocket Limit |
| Plan M | Basic BenefitsSkilled NursingPart A Deductible (50%)Foreign Travel |
| Plan N | Basic BenefitsSkilled NursingPart A DeductibleForeign TravelCo-pays may apply |
Plans A thru N * Check with your broker or agent for updated plans
Have Questions About Supplement Plans?
Our brokers will help you find the right Medigap plan for your needs and budget.
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