A Medicare Supplement plan, also known as Medigap, is private insurance designed to help cover the out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare does not pay.
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) typically pays about 80% of approved medical costs, leaving you responsible for deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. A Medicare Supplement plan helps fill those gaps.
These plans are offered by private insurance companies but are standardized and regulated by Medicare.
Depending on the plan you choose, Medicare Supplement policies may cover:
Medicare Part A hospital deductible
Medicare Part B coinsurance (the 20% Medicare doesn’t pay)
Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
Blood transfusions
Hospice coinsurance
Foreign travel emergency coverage (some plans)
The biggest benefit is predictable medical costs, since many Medigap plans cover most out-of-pocket expenses.
When you have a Medigap policy:
Medicare pays first
Your Medicare Supplement plan pays second
You pay little or nothing for covered services depending on your plan.
One major advantage is freedom of choice. You can see any doctor or hospital in the United States that accepts Medicare.
Medicare Supplement plans are labeled by letters. The most common include:
Plan G – The most popular plan for new Medicare beneficiaries
Plan N – Lower premium with small copays for doctor visits
Plan F – Comprehensive coverage (only available if you became eligible before 2020)
Each plan offers the same benefits regardless of the insurance company, but premiums can vary between carriers.
Many people compare Medicare Supplement plans with Medicare Advantage plans, but they work very differently.
Medicare Supplement Plans
✔ Works with Original Medicare
✔ No provider networks
✔ Predictable medical costs
✔ No referrals required
Medicare Advantage Plans
✔ All-in-one alternative to Medicare
✔ Often include drug coverage
✔ Usually require provider networks
✔ Many have zero or lower monthly premiums
The best time to enroll is during your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period.
This six-month window begins when:
You are age 65 or older
You are enrolled in Medicare Part B
During this time:
✔ You cannot be denied coverage
✔ No health questions are required
✔ You receive the best pricing options
After this window, you may need to go through medical underwriting.
Official Medicare explanation: https://www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/medigap/ready-to-buy
Medicare Supplement plans do not include prescription drug coverage.
Most people with Medigap also enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
What Is Medicare Part D?
A Medicare Supplement plan may be a good fit if you want:
Predictable healthcare costs
Freedom to see any Medicare provider nationwide
Protection from large medical bills
Long-term coverage stability
Every situation is different, which is why comparing plans from multiple carriers is important.
Choosing the right Medicare coverage can feel overwhelming. As an independent Medicare advisor, I help you compare multiple companies and find the plan that fits your health needs and budget.
There is no cost for my help, and you receive the same price whether you enroll directly with the insurance company or through a licensed broker.
To schedule an appointment just click my Calendly Link here to find a time that is convenient for your schedule https://calendly.com/mmanry-1.