A Medigap plan, also known as a Medicare Supplement plan, is a type of health insurance policy sold by private companies that helps cover some of the out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare (Parts A and B). These costs can include deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. Medigap plans are designed to fill the “gaps” in Original Medicare coverage.
You can read more in depth about Medigap plans here.
How Medigap plans work
Medigap policies are supplemental to Original Medicare (Parts A and B). They don’t replace your Medicare coverage but rather help pay for costs that Medicare doesn’t fully cover.
Enrollment requirement of Medigap plans
You can enroll in a Medigap plan if you have Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and are either 65 or older, or have certain disabilities or conditions like end-stage renal disease.
While you are allowed to enroll in a Medigap plan any time of the year, insurance companies are able to deny you coverage outside of a specific windowm around the first time you are eligible for Medicare Part B, known as the Initial Enrollment Period. If you are interested in a Medigap plan, you should consider buying it at this time.
Coverage option with Medigap plans
Because you are still enrolled in the Medicare system, you are able to visit any doctor or specialist anywhere in the US without needing to worry about networks or referrals.
How Medigap plans work
You pay a monthly premium for your Medigap plan, in addition to your Medicare Part B premium. Once you’ve met your Medicare deductibles, your Medigap plan will help pay for your share of the costs.
