Helping a parent with their Medicare decisions is a significant act of love, but it can also be incredibly complex. You want to ensure they have excellent coverage without creating financial strain, yet the system is filled with confusing terms and deadlines. If you’re trying to understand the difference between Original Medicare and supplemental insurance, you’re in the right place. This guide is designed to give you clear, straightforward information about Medigap plans. We’ll explain how they work to cover out-of-pocket costs and what to look for when comparing policies. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to help your parent find the best Medigap plans for their needs, making the process less stressful for everyone involved.
Key Takeaways
- Medigap is your financial safety net: A Medigap plan works with your Original Medicare, not in place of it. Its purpose is to pay for the out-of-pocket costs that Medicare leaves behind, helping you budget for healthcare without surprise bills.
- Choose a plan based on your budget and health: There is no single “best” plan. The right choice involves balancing a plan’s monthly premium with the out-of-pocket costs you’re comfortable with, which is why plans like G and N are common starting points.
- Prioritize your Open Enrollment window: Your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period is the most important time to act. Enrolling during this window guarantees you can get any plan at the best price, regardless of your health history.
What is a Medigap Plan? A Simple Guide to Supplemental Coverage
Think of a Medigap plan, also called Medicare Supplement Insurance, as a safety net for your healthcare costs. While Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers a lot, it doesn’t cover everything. It leaves behind certain “gaps” that you’re responsible for paying, like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. These out-of-pocket expenses can add up quickly, especially if you have a serious health issue. This is where a Medigap plan steps in.
Sold by private insurance companies, Medigap policies are designed specifically to help pay for those remaining costs. The plans are standardized by the government and labeled with letters, like Plan G or Plan N. This means that a Plan G from one company offers the exact same basic benefits as a Plan G from another. While the coverage is the same, the price can vary quite a bit between companies. This standardization makes it easier for you to compare plans and find one that fits your budget and health needs without having to decipher complicated policy differences. The key takeaway is that these plans help cover costs Original Medicare doesn’t, giving you more predictable healthcare expenses and peace of mind.
One crucial point to remember is that Medigap plans are built to work alongside Original Medicare, not replace it. They also have a specific focus: they help with medical bills from doctors and hospitals. What they don’t cover are things like long-term care, dental, vision, or hearing aids. Most importantly, Medigap plans do not cover prescription drugs. For that, you’ll need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan. Understanding this distinction is essential to building a complete healthcare coverage package that truly protects you.
What is Medigap and Why Might You Need It?
Think of Original Medicare (Parts A and B) as the foundation of your health coverage. It’s essential, but it doesn’t cover everything. After Medicare pays its share for a doctor’s visit or hospital stay, you’re often left with out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. These gaps can add up quickly, especially if you have ongoing health needs or an unexpected medical event.
This is where Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap, comes in. As the name suggests, it’s designed to fill the “gaps” in your Original Medicare coverage. Private companies sell Medigap plans to help pay for those remaining costs, giving you more predictable expenses and greater peace of mind. If you have Original Medicare and want help managing your share of the bills, a Medigap plan is something you should seriously consider. It works alongside your Medicare to create a more complete safety net for your health and your finances.
Let’s Clear Up Some Common Myths
When you first start looking into Medigap, you’ll likely run into some confusing information. Let’s set the record straight on a few common points of confusion. First, many people think Medigap and Medicare Advantage are the same, but they serve different purposes. Medigap supplements Original Medicare, while Medicare Advantage replaces it. Another myth is that Medigap covers prescription drugs. It doesn’t. For that, you’ll need a separate Part D plan. Finally, some believe that working with an agent is an extra cost, but the opposite is often true. An experienced agent can help you compare plans and find savings you might have missed on your own.
The Real Value of Supplemental Insurance
The main benefit of a Medigap plan is financial security. It can significantly reduce out-of-pocket medical costs, making your health care expenses much more predictable from month to month. Instead of facing an unexpected and potentially large bill, you pay a steady monthly premium for your Medigap plan. This allows you to budget effectively without worrying that a health issue will disrupt your finances. With so many plans and companies to choose from, finding the right fit can feel overwhelming. That’s why many people turn to resources that analyze the best Medicare Supplement Insurance companies to find a plan that offers the right balance of coverage, cost, and customer satisfaction.
A Closer Look at the Top Medigap Plans: G, F, and N
When you start exploring Medigap, you’ll notice a whole alphabet of plans available: A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N. Seeing all those letters can feel like trying to solve a puzzle. The good news is that you don’t need to become an expert on every single one. For most people, the choice boils down to three standout options: Plan G, Plan F, and Plan N. These have become the most popular for a simple reason—they offer excellent, well-rounded coverage that meets the needs of many retirees.
One of the most helpful things to know about Medigap is that the plans are standardized by the government. This means that a Plan G from one insurance company offers the exact same medical benefits as a Plan G from any other company. While the core coverage is identical, the monthly premium you pay can vary significantly between insurers. This setup actually works in your favor. It allows you to first focus on choosing the right plan letter for your health and budget. Once you’ve decided on the plan, you can then shop around to find the company that offers it at the best price. Let’s break down the big three so you can see which one might be the right fit for you.
Plan G: The Go-To for New Enrollees
If you became eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020, Plan G is the most comprehensive coverage you can buy. It has quickly become the new gold standard for its extensive benefits. Many people choose Plan G because it covers nearly all of your out-of-pocket costs, which means you have very few medical bills to worry about after you’ve met your deductible.
The only major cost that Plan G doesn’t cover is the annual Medicare Part B deductible. After you pay that one-time yearly deductible out of pocket, Plan G takes over and pays 100% of the remaining Medicare-approved expenses. This structure makes your healthcare spending incredibly predictable and simple to budget for, offering significant peace of mind.
Plan N: A Balance of Lower Premiums and Predictable Costs
Plan N is a wonderful option if you’re looking for solid protection without the higher price tag of Plan G. It strikes a great balance between lower monthly premiums and strong coverage. With Plan N, you accept some small, predictable cost-sharing in exchange for a more affordable monthly payment. This is a trade-off that many people find very appealing.
Specifically, you may have a copayment of up to $20 for some doctor’s office visits and a $50 copay if you visit the emergency room and aren’t admitted to the hospital. For individuals who are in relatively good health and don’t anticipate frequent doctor visits, these minor copays are a small price to pay for the monthly savings.
Plan F: The Original All-Inclusive Plan (for Existing Members)
For many years, Plan F was the top Medigap plan because it offered the most coverage possible. It’s often referred to as “first-dollar” coverage since it pays for all of Medicare’s gaps, including the Part B deductible. If you have Plan F, you generally have no out-of-pocket costs for Medicare-approved services. However, a change in federal law has limited its availability.
Plan F is now only available to people who were eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020. If you fall into this group, you can still purchase a Plan F. Because its coverage is so complete, it usually comes with the highest monthly premium. For those who qualify and want the simplicity of zero healthcare bills, Plan F delivers the ultimate peace of mind.
How Plans G, F, and N Compare
Deciding between these top three plans really comes down to your personal situation: your eligibility date, your budget, and your comfort level with out-of-pocket costs. Think of it this way: Plan F is the all-inclusive package, but only for those who were eligible for Medicare before 2020. Plan G is the premier choice for new members, covering almost everything after you pay a single annual deductible.
Plan N is the budget-conscious option, offering a lower premium in return for small, fixed copayments for doctor and ER visits. There is no single “best” plan that works for everyone. The right choice is the one that aligns with your health needs and financial plan, giving you the confidence that you’re well-covered for the years to come.
What Determines the Cost of a Medigap Plan?
When you start shopping for a Medigap plan, you’ll quickly notice that the price for the exact same plan can vary quite a bit. A Plan G from one company might have a different monthly premium than a Plan G from another, even though the benefits are standardized by the government. This is because several factors influence your final cost.
Think of it like car insurance—your rate depends on more than just the car you drive. For Medigap, your premium is shaped by your age, where you live, your health history, and how the insurance company calculates its prices. Understanding these key elements will help you see the full picture and find a plan that fits your budget not just today, but for years to come. Let’s walk through what goes into the price tag of a Medigap plan.
Your Age and Gender
It’s a simple fact that your age plays a significant role in what you’ll pay for a Medigap plan. Generally, the younger you are when you enroll, the lower your monthly premium will be. This is one of the biggest reasons why signing up during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period when you first turn 65 is so important. Your gender can also be a factor in some cases, though age and location tend to have a much bigger impact on your premium. Insurers use this information to assess risk, which is then reflected in the price of the policy.
Where You Live
You might be surprised to learn that your zip code can have a major effect on your Medigap premium. Costs for the same plan can differ from state to state and even between different counties within the same state. This variation is often due to local market conditions, such as the number of insurance companies competing in your area. More competition can sometimes lead to lower prices for you. State-specific regulations also play a part in how Medigap plans are priced, which is why working with someone licensed in your state is so helpful.
How Insurance Companies Set Prices
Insurance companies use one of three methods to price their Medigap plans, and the method they choose directly affects your premiums over time.
- Community-rated: Everyone in a specific area pays the same premium, regardless of their age.
- Issue-age-rated: Your premium is based on your age when you first buy the policy. It won’t increase just because you get older.
- Attained-age-rated: Your premium starts lower but goes up as you age. This is the most common pricing method. Understanding which pricing method a company uses is key to anticipating future rate increases and choosing a plan that remains affordable.
Your Health History and Underwriting
Your health is a critical factor, especially if you apply for a Medigap plan outside of your Open Enrollment Period. During this initial six-month window, you have “guaranteed issue rights,” meaning an insurance company cannot use your health history to charge you more or deny you coverage.
However, if you apply later, you will likely have to go through medical underwriting. This means the insurance company will review your medical records. If you have pre-existing conditions, you could face higher premiums or even be denied a policy altogether. This is why your initial enrollment window is the golden ticket to getting the best possible rate.
How to Choose the Right Medigap Plan for You
Choosing a Medigap plan feels like a big decision because it is. This is about your health and your financial security for years to come. The “best” plan isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer; it’s the one that fits your life. By thinking through a few key areas—your health, your budget, and your timing—you can find a plan that gives you confidence and peace of mind. Let’s walk through how to find the right match for you.
Assess Your Current and Future Health Needs
First, take an honest look at your health. Are you managing a chronic condition or do you see specialists regularly? Or are you generally healthy and only visit the doctor for annual check-ups? If you anticipate needing more medical care, a plan with more comprehensive coverage, like Plan G, can save you from unpredictable out-of-pocket costs. While no one has a crystal ball, considering both your current health and potential future needs helps you choose a plan that will serve you well down the road. It’s about finding coverage that lets you focus on your health, not the bills.
Balance What You Pay with What You Get
Your budget is a major piece of the puzzle. Medigap plans come with different monthly premiums, and it’s tempting to just pick the one with the lowest price tag. But it’s important to look at the whole picture. A lower premium might mean you pay more when you actually use your insurance, like with the Plan N copays. A higher premium, on the other hand, often means more predictable costs and fewer surprises. You can use the official Medicare plan comparison tool to see what’s available in your area and get a sense of the costs. It’s all about finding a balance you’re comfortable with.
Check for Doctor and Hospital Access
One of the best features of Medigap is freedom. With a Medigap plan, you can see any doctor or visit any hospital in the U.S. that accepts Original Medicare. You don’t have to worry about networks or getting referrals to see a specialist. This gives you incredible flexibility and control over your healthcare. The main thing to confirm is which insurance companies offer the plan you want (like Plan G or N) in your state. Not every company sells every plan in every location, so you’ll want to check which options are available where you live.
Plan Ahead for Peace of Mind
Timing is everything when it comes to Medigap. Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period is the most important time to sign up. This is a six-month window that starts the month you’re 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this time, insurance companies cannot deny you a policy or charge you more because of your health history. If you miss this window, it can be much harder and more expensive to get a plan later. Taking the time to understand your enrollment period and acting within it is the single best thing you can do to secure your coverage for the future.
Who Are the Top Medigap Insurance Companies?
When you start looking at Medigap plans, you’ll notice that many different insurance companies offer them. This can feel a little confusing at first. After all, if a Plan G has to offer the same basic benefits no matter who sells it, does the company really matter? The short answer is yes. While the government standardizes the coverage for each plan type, the companies themselves are very different.
The price you pay, the quality of customer service you receive, and the company’s financial stability can vary quite a bit. Some companies are known for competitive pricing, while others are praised for their member support. Finding the right fit means looking at the company as a whole, not just the plan letter. To help you get familiar with the landscape, here are some of the most recognized names in the Medigap market.
The Big 65
While we aren’t an insurance company, we play a crucial role in helping you find the right plan. As an independent agency, The Big 65 is a trusted resource for people seeking clear information on Medicare and Medigap plans. We provide insights into the best options available in the market for your specific situation. Instead of working for one insurance company, we work for you. Our goal is to help you compare plans from various top-rated carriers so you can make a choice that feels right, without the pressure of being sold a single company’s product.
AARP/UnitedHealthcare
You’ve likely seen the AARP name before, and their partnership with UnitedHealthcare makes them one of the biggest players in the Medicare space. Because of their size and brand recognition, AARP/UnitedHealthcare is recognized for offering a wide range of Medigap plan options, making it a top choice for many seniors. Their extensive network and variety of plans mean they often have a suitable option for people in many different parts of the country. They are a very common starting point for people just beginning their Medigap research.
Mutual of Omaha
Mutual of Omaha has been around for over a century and has a long-standing reputation in the insurance industry. When it comes to Medigap, Mutual of Omaha stands out for its premium discounts and comprehensive coverage options, which appeal to those looking for affordability and value. They are particularly well-known for offering a household discount in many states if both you and your spouse enroll in one of their plans. This can lead to significant savings over time, making them a very attractive option for couples.
Aetna
Aetna, now part of CVS Health, is another major national health insurer that offers Medigap plans. The company has a solid reputation and a large presence across the country. According to industry experts, Aetna is known for its variety of Medigap plans and commitment to customer service, making it a reliable choice for Medicare beneficiaries. For many people, knowing they have access to a strong customer support team is just as important as the monthly premium, and Aetna often receives positive marks in this area.
Cigna
Cigna is a global health service company that provides a range of insurance products, including Medigap supplements. They are a strong competitor in the market, often getting attention for their pricing and service. In fact, Cigna offers competitive pricing and has received high marks for customer satisfaction, making it a strong contender in the Medigap market. If you’re looking for a plan that balances a reasonable premium with dependable service, Cigna is definitely a company worth comparing with other top carriers in your area.
Humana
As one of the largest health insurance providers in the United States, Humana has a significant footprint in the Medicare market. They offer a full suite of products, from Medicare Advantage to Part D and Medigap plans. Humana is noted for its extensive range of Medigap plans and excellent member services, catering to the diverse needs of seniors. Their broad portfolio means they often have multiple plan types available, giving you the flexibility to find coverage that aligns with your health needs and financial comfort zone.
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) is one of the most recognized names in American health insurance, but it operates a little differently. It’s an association of 34 independent, locally operated companies. This means your experience with a BCBS Medigap plan can vary depending on where you live. Still, the brand as a whole is a major force in the Medigap market. Blue Cross Blue Shield is well-regarded for its focus on customer satisfaction and offers a variety of typical Medigap plans to choose from.
State Farm
Many people know State Farm for home and auto insurance, but they also have a presence in the health insurance market, including Medigap. Partnering with a familiar agent can be a big draw for those who already have other policies with the company. More importantly, State Farm is recognized for its high member satisfaction ratings and offers a range of Medigap plans tailored to meet the needs of seniors. Their reputation for customer care in other insurance areas often carries over, making them a trusted choice for many.
What to Look For in a Medigap Plan
Choosing a Medigap plan feels like a big decision because it is. But you don’t have to get lost in the details. When you know what to look for, you can confidently compare your options and find a plan that truly fits your life. The goal is to find a balance between monthly cost and long-term protection, so you have peace of mind knowing you’re covered.
Think of this as your personal checklist. As you look at different plans from various companies, you can measure them against these five key areas. This approach helps you cut through the noise and focus on what matters most: your health and your budget. From understanding exactly what costs the plan will cover to checking for the freedom to see your preferred doctors, each point is a crucial piece of the puzzle. Let’s walk through them one by one.
Coverage for Your Out-of-Pocket Costs
The main reason to get a Medigap plan is to help pay for the costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover. Original Medicare pays for a large portion of your medical bills, but you’re still responsible for things like deductibles and coinsurance, which can add up quickly. Medigap plans are designed specifically to cover these gaps.
When you compare plans, look closely at which of these out-of-pocket expenses are covered. For example, some plans cover the Medicare Part A deductible for hospital stays, while others might cover coinsurance for skilled nursing facilities. The more comprehensive the plan, the fewer surprise bills you’ll face. Understanding what Original Medicare covers is the first step to seeing where a Medigap plan can fill in the gaps for you.
The Plan’s Premium and Overall Value
The monthly premium is the fixed amount you’ll pay to keep your plan active, and it’s often the first thing people look at. While it’s important to find a premium that fits your budget, the cheapest plan isn’t always the best choice. You need to consider the overall value you’re getting for your money.
A plan with a very low premium might leave you with higher out-of-pocket costs when you actually need care. On the other hand, a plan with a higher premium might cover nearly everything, giving you more predictable expenses. The key is to balance the monthly cost with the potential savings on medical bills down the road. Think about your personal healthcare budget and risk tolerance to find the right fit.
Deductibles and Coinsurance Details
Beyond the premium, it’s essential to understand the other costs you might be responsible for. Dig into the details of each plan to see what deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance you might have to pay. A deductible is the amount you have to pay for care before your plan starts paying, while copayments and coinsurance are your share of the cost for services after you’ve met your deductible.
For example, Medigap Plan N requires a small copayment for some doctor visits and emergency room trips. While its premium is often lower, you have to be comfortable with these small, predictable costs. Evaluating these potential out-of-pocket expenses is critical to understanding the true cost of a plan over the course of a year.
Freedom to Choose Your Doctors
One of the biggest advantages of Medigap is the freedom it gives you. Unlike some other types of insurance, Medigap plans allow you to see any doctor or visit any hospital in the country that accepts Medicare. There are no restrictive networks, so you don’t have to worry about whether your trusted specialist is “in-network.”
This is a huge benefit if you travel or have doctors you’ve been seeing for years and don’t want to change. When you’re considering a plan, this freedom is a standard feature, so you can rest assured that your access to care won’t be limited. You can always use Medicare’s official tool to find providers who accept Medicare patients near you or anywhere you plan to be.
Any Extra Perks or Benefits
While all Medigap plans of the same letter must offer the same basic benefits, some insurance companies add extra perks to stand out. These can include benefits like gym memberships through programs like SilverSneakers, discounts on vision or dental care, or even hearing aid benefits. These extras are not part of the standardized Medigap coverage but are offered by the private insurance company.
These perks can be a nice bonus, but they shouldn’t be the main reason you choose a plan. Your top priority should always be the core medical coverage and financial protection the plan provides. However, if you’re deciding between two otherwise identical plans, a valuable extra benefit could be the perfect tiebreaker that adds a little more value to your coverage.
How and When to Enroll in a Medigap Plan
Timing is a huge factor when you’re signing up for a Medigap plan. It’s not just about picking the right plan; it’s about picking it at the right time to get the best price and guarantee your coverage. Your initial enrollment window is the most important period, as it gives you protections you won’t have later on. Understanding these key timelines will help you make a smart decision without the stress of missing a critical deadline. Let’s walk through the most important enrollment periods and rules you need to know.
Why Your Open Enrollment Period is So Important
This is the single best time to buy a Medigap policy. Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period is a one-time, six-month window that starts on the first day of the month you’re both 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During these six months, an insurance company cannot use medical underwriting. This means they can’t refuse to sell you any Medigap policy they offer, charge you more because of your health status, or make you wait for coverage to start. Think of it as your golden ticket to getting the plan you want, regardless of any pre-existing conditions. It’s crucial to take advantage of this period to secure your coverage for the long term.
Know Your Guaranteed Issue Rights
What if you miss your Open Enrollment Period? Don’t panic—you might have another chance. In certain situations, you have what are called “guaranteed issue rights,” which also mean insurance companies must sell you a Medigap policy. These rights are triggered by specific life events, like if you lose your employer health coverage after turning 65, or if you move out of your Medicare Advantage plan’s service area. While these protections are a great safety net, they often limit you to a smaller selection of Medigap plans. It’s always best to enroll during your initial Open Enrollment Period if you can, but it’s good to know these rights exist if your circumstances change unexpectedly.
Can You Switch Medigap Plans Later?
This is a question we get all the time. The short answer is: maybe, but it can be difficult. Once your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period is over, you lose the federal protection that lets you buy any plan without health questions. If you want to switch to a different Medigap plan later, the insurance company can generally require you to go through medical underwriting. This means they’ll ask about your health history and can charge you a higher premium or even deny your application altogether based on your answers. This is why it’s so important to choose your plan carefully from the start. In most states, you can’t simply change your Medigap policy whenever you want without facing these hurdles.
Your Checklist for Making a Confident Decision
Choosing a Medigap plan can feel like a huge decision, but you don’t have to get lost in the details. By breaking it down into a few simple steps, you can move forward with clarity and find a plan that truly fits your life. Think of this as your personal checklist to help you weigh your options, understand the costs, and select a company you can trust. With the right approach, you can feel confident that you’re making a smart choice for your health and your budget.
Use Online Tools to Compare Your Options
A great starting point is to see exactly what plans are available to you. Medicare provides an official online tool that lets you find and compare plans in your specific zip code. This resource is helpful because it cuts through the noise and shows you the policies offered in your area. You can see the differences in coverage and get a general idea of costs. Using this tool helps you create a baseline understanding of your options before you start digging into the specifics of each company. It’s a practical first step that puts the information directly in your hands.
Ask These Key Questions Before You Choose
Once you have a list of potential plans, it’s time to think about your personal needs. Start by asking yourself: How often do I expect to see a doctor? Do I have any chronic conditions that require regular care? Your answers will help you decide if a plan with more comprehensive coverage, like Plan G, is a better fit than one with lower premiums but more out-of-pocket costs. Next, look at your budget. It’s important to compare monthly premiums alongside potential deductibles and copayments to find a balance that feels comfortable for you.
Look at Company Reviews and Ratings
While Medigap plans are standardized, the companies that sell them are not. The insurer you choose affects your monthly premium and your customer service experience. Some companies are known for keeping rate increases stable, while others offer premium discounts. For example, AARP/UnitedHealthcare is often recognized for its plan options, while Mutual of Omaha is noted for its discounts. It’s wise to look at company reviews and ratings to see how they perform in areas like member satisfaction. A company like Blue Cross Blue Shield often gets high marks for its customer-focused approach, which can make a real difference.
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Frequently Asked Questions
If all Plan G policies are the same, why does the company I choose matter? That’s a great question, and it gets to the heart of making a smart choice. While the government standardizes the medical benefits of a Plan G, the insurance companies offering it are very different. The monthly premium you pay can vary significantly from one company to another for the exact same coverage. Beyond price, you should also consider a company’s history of rate increases and its financial stability. A plan that seems cheap today might have larger premium hikes down the road. The quality of customer service also matters when you have a question or need help.
Can my Medigap premium increase after I buy my plan? Yes, it’s very likely that your premium will go up over time. Most Medigap plans are “attained-age rated,” which means the price is based on your current age and will increase as you get older. These increases are in addition to any adjustments for inflation. This is why it’s so important to look at a company’s rate history when you first choose a plan. A stable, predictable company may be a better long-term value than one with a low introductory rate that increases sharply later on.
I missed my initial enrollment window. What are my options now? If you’re outside your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, it can be more difficult to get a policy, but you may still have options. In most cases, you will have to answer health questions, and the insurance company can use that information to charge you more or even deny your application. However, certain life events, like losing employer coverage, can grant you “guaranteed issue rights,” which allow you to buy a plan without health screening. It’s best to explore your specific situation with an expert who can identify any special enrollment opportunities you might have.
What’s the main difference between a Medigap plan and a Medicare Advantage plan? This is one of the most common points of confusion. The simplest way to think about it is that Medigap works with Original Medicare, while Medicare Advantage works instead of it. A Medigap plan supplements your Original Medicare coverage by paying for costs like deductibles and coinsurance. A Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) is an alternative way to get your Medicare benefits, often bundling medical and drug coverage into one plan with a specific network of doctors. They are two completely different paths for your healthcare coverage.
Why do I still need a separate Part D plan if I have Medigap? Medigap plans are designed to cover the gaps in your medical coverage from Original Medicare Parts A and B, which includes things like hospital stays and doctor visits. However, they do not include coverage for prescription drugs. To get help paying for your medications, you will need to enroll in a separate, standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. Building a complete coverage package means having Original Medicare, a Medigap plan for medical costs, and a Part D plan for your prescriptions.