These supplement plans are also referred to as “Medigap” insurance. This plan is provided by a private company and helps cover some of the health care costs that Original Medicare doesn’t, like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. There are “gaps” in Medicare coverage.

What you should know if you want to buy a Medigap policy.

• You must have Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical insurance) to buy a Medigap policy.
• You pay the private insurance company a premium for your Medigap policy in addition to the monthly Part B premium you pay Medicare.
• A Medigap policy only covers one person. If you and your spouse both want Medigap coverage, you each will have to buy separate policies.
• Medigap policies only supplements the costs of your Original Medicare benefits.
• Medicare doesn’t pay any of your costs for a Medigap policy
• All Medigap policies must follow federal and state laws designed to protect you.
• Any Medigap policy is guaranteed renewable even if you have health problems.
• There are 10 Medigap Plans to choose from. They’re labeled by letters A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M and N, each plan letter has different coverage benefits.
• Medigap policy must offer the same basic benefits, no matter which insurance company sells it.
• Different insurance companies may charge different premiums for the same exact policy with the same letter.
• You may not have a MAPD in addition to a Medigap plan.
• Medigap policies are different from a Medicare Advantage Plans as they have no additional benefits such as routine vision or dental.
• Medigap plans do not include prescription coverage.
• Some insurance companies may offer extra discounts and services with their plans.
• No provider network. Go to any provider that accepts Medicare.
• No referrals required.