Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)

While Original Medicare (Parts A and B) provides essential health coverage, it can leave gaps that may lead to unexpected out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap, are designed to fill these gaps and provide more comprehensive coverage.

1. Reduced Out-of-Pocket Costs: Medigap helps cover deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance that Original Medicare doesn't pay.
2. Nationwide Acceptance: When paired with Original Medicare, Medigap plans are accepted by any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare, giving you flexibility in choosing healthcare providers across the country.
3. Predictable Costs: While premiums vary based on factors like age and location, Medigap plans offer more predictable healthcare costs, helping you budget more effectively.
4. Guaranteed Renewability: Once you're enrolled, your coverage continues as long as you pay your premiums, regardless of health changes.

• Standardized Plans: 10 types of plans (labeled A-N) offer different levels of coverage. No matter the insurance company, plans with the same letter have the same benefits.
• ​Find Your Fit: Your agent can help you compare plans based on your health needs and budget.​

Standardized Plans 

There are 10 standardized Medigap plans, labeled A through N (E, H, I, and J are no longer sold). Each plan letter offers a different level of coverage:

• Plan A: Basic benefits
• Plan B: Basic benefits plus Part A deductible coverage
• Plan C*: Comprehensive coverage including foreign travel emergency
• Plan D: Moderate coverage including foreign travel emergency
• Plan F*: Most comprehensive coverage
• Plan G: Similar to Plan F, but doesn't cover Part B deductible
• Plan K: Lower premium option with higher out-of-pocket costs
• Plan L: Similar to K with different cost-sharing
• Plan M: Similar to D but with 50% Part A deductible coverage
• Plan N: Similar to D but with some cost-sharing for office and ER visits

*Note: Plans C and F are not available to those newly eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020.

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While Medigap plans offer valuable coverage, they don't cover everything. Notable exclusions include:

• Routine dental care
• Vision services
• Hearing aids
• Prescription drugs
• Long-term care

For comprehensive coverage, you may need to consider additional policies or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes these benefits.

Understanding when to enroll in a Medigap plan is critical: 

1. One-Time Opportunity: Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period lasts for 6 months, starting from the first day of the month you're both 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B.
2. Guaranteed Issue Rights: During this period, insurance companies must sell you a Medigap policy at the best available rate, regardless of your health status.
3. Don't Miss It: After this period, you may face medical underwriting, potentially resulting in higher premiums or denial of coverage.

Special Circumstances: If you're eligible for Medicare due to disability, you get a second Medigap Open Enrollment Period when you turn 65.

Choosing the right Medicare Supplement plan can be complex. At Encore Insurance Connection, our licensed agents are here to help you understand your options and find the coverage that best fits your needs and budget.

Contact Encore Insurance Connection for a free, no-obligation consultation to explore your Medicare Supplement options.

Remember, investing time in understanding your Medicare Supplement options now can lead to significant savings and peace of mind in the future.

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