Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)
Even with Medicare Part A and B, you’re still responsible for about 20% of approved medical costs. Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap insurance, are designed to cover Medicare gaps like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. These standardized plans work alongside your Original Medicare, offering you predictable out-of-pocket Medicare costs and more control over your healthcare expenses. You can visit any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare—no referrals needed—giving you both flexibility and peace of mind.
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At CoverCare Insurance, we simplify the Medigap plan comparison process by helping you evaluate options from trusted carriers. Whether you want a plan that minimizes out-of-pocket costs or balances monthly premiums with strong coverage, we’ll guide you toward the Medicare coverage option that fits your health needs and financial goals. Medigap insurance can be a smart solution if you value nationwide provider access and want help with Medicare copays and deductibles. We’re here to make sure your Medicare Supplement plan supports your lifestyle—so you can worry less and enjoy more.
Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)
You can talk about Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap) with the following specialists in any of our offices:
Related FAQs
What is a Medigap plan?
Medigap, or Medicare Supplement Insurance, helps cover the out-of-pocket costs left by Original Medicare (Parts A & B), such as deductibles, coinsurance, and copays.
When can I enroll in Medigap?
The best time is during the 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, starting when you’re both age 65 and enrolled in Part B. You have guaranteed issue rights—no medical underwriting.
Can I buy Medigap any other time?
Yes, outside your enrollment period—but insurers may deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on health status.
How many Medigap plans are available?
There are 10 standardized plans labeled A–D, F, G, K–N. Benefits are identical across insurers; only prices vary.
Who is eligible for a Medigap policy?
You must be enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A & B); some states also allow Medigap for disability or ESRD (End-Stage Renal Disease) recipients under 65.
What does Medigap cover?
Coverage varies by plan but often includes: Part A/B coinsurance, hospital deductible, blood transfusions, skilled nursing coinsurance, foreign travel emergencies—some even cover Part B excess charges.
Does Medigap cover prescription drugs?
No—Medigap policies sold after 2005 don’t include drug coverage. You’ll need a separate Part D drug plan.
Can I keep my own doctor?
Yes. Medigap allows you to see any doctor or provider who accepts Medicare assignment—giving you nationwide flexibility.
Is Medigap renewable?
Yes—Medigap is guaranteed renewable for life, as long as premiums are paid. Insurers cannot cancel your policy based on health or claims.
How are premiums determined for Medigap?
Premiums depend on the insurer and pricing method (community, issue-age, attained-age), plus your location, age, gender, and smoking status.
Which rating methods are used to determine Medigap premiums?
There are three types of methods used to determine Medigap premiums:
- Community-rated: same for all enrollees
- Issue-age rated: based on your age when you enroll
- Attained-age rated: based on current age (may rise over time).
Do Medigap premiums increase over time?
Yes—depends on rating. Attained-age rises with age; community-rated increases with inflation; issue-age stays stable but may adjust due to overall cost changes.
What about pre-existing conditions and Medigap?
During your Open Enrollment, all conditions are covered. Outside that, insurers may impose waiting periods (usually up to 6 months) or deny coverage based on health history.
Can I change Medigap plans?
Yes, but outside enrollment, you may be subject to underwriting. Some states allow switching on birthday rules or plan discontinuation without underwriting.
What happens if I drop Medigap for Medicare Advantage?
If you leave Advantage within 12 months, you have a “trial right” to buy Medigap without underwriting. After that, you’ll need to reapply and potentially qualify medically.
Does Medigap cover travel outside the U.S.?
Many plans (like C, F, G, and N) include foreign travel emergency coverage, paying up to a specified limit abroad.
How do I file claims in Medigap?
Usually, your provider bills Medicare, and Medicare sends the remainder to your Medigap insurer automatically. Some companies may ask you to submit claims directly.
Does Medigap have an out-of-pocket limit?
No. Medigap doesn’t set an annual cap—instead, it covers cost-sharing per service. This differs from Medicare Advantage, which has an OOP maximum .
Should I get Medigap or Medicare Advantage?
Medigap offers provider freedom and predictable costs, while Advantage includes additional perks but restricts providers and may need referrals. Choice depends on needs and preferences.
How much does Medigap cost on average?
Popular Plan G averages $100–150/month; Plan F (available to older enrollees) may cost more. Premiums vary by plan type and market.
What are “guaranteed issue rights” in Medigap?
Guaranteed issue rights allow you to buy certain Medigap plans without health questions if you meet specific events (like leaving a Medicare Advantage plan under a trial right).
Can I buy a Medigap policy if I’m in a Medicare Advantage plan?
Yes—but to use it, you must first leave the Medicare Advantage plan. Medigap won’t cover your out‑of‑pocket costs under Advantage.
Will Medigap premium costs vary by carrier?
Yes. Though covered benefits are standardized, premiums vary by insurer, location, age, gender, and pricing strategy.
Do state rules impact Medigap policies?
Yes—states like Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin have additional coverage standards and different rules for Medigap policies.
Can I move and retain my Medigap policy?
In most cases, yes. Your Medigap plan stays valid if you move to another state—though your premium amount may change.