Medigap, also known as Medicare Supplement Insurance, is private health insurance that helps cover the gaps in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). Medigap plans are sold by private insurance companies and are designed to work alongside Medicare to provide additional coverage for out-of-pocket costs.
Here’s how to go about getting Medigap insurance:

1. Understand Medigap Basics: Familiarize yourself with the basics of Medigap insurance. Medigap plans are standardized into different lettered plans (such as Plan A, Plan B, etc.), and each plan provides a different set of benefits. The benefits of each plan of the same letter are the same, regardless of the insurance company offering it.
2. Enroll during the Medigap Open Enrollment Period: The best time to enroll in a Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. This period begins on the first day of the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, you have guaranteed issue rights, which means insurance companies cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums based on pre-existing conditions.
3. Compare Medigap Plans: Research and compare the different Medigap plans available in your area. Each plan offers a different combination of benefits, and it’s important to understand what each plan covers and how it aligns with your healthcare needs. You can use online resources or contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to get information on available plans.
4. Choose a Medigap Insurance Company: Once you have identified the plan that suits your needs, you can choose an insurance company that offers that plan. Remember that the benefits of the plan will be the same, but the premiums and customer service may vary among insurance companies. Consider factors such as the company’s reputation, customer reviews, and premium rates when selecting an insurance company.
5. Apply for Medigap Coverage: Contact the insurance company you have chosen and follow their application process to apply for Medigap coverage. The insurance company will ask you questions about your health history and other relevant information. During your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, you have guaranteed acceptance into any Medigap plan, regardless of your health condition.
6. Understand the Costs: Medigap plans have monthly premiums that you pay to the insurance company in addition to your Medicare Part B premium. The premium amount will depend on factors such as the plan you choose, your location, and the insurance company. Review the premium costs and ensure they fit within your budget.

It’s important to note that Medigap plans do not include prescription drug coverage. If you want prescription drug coverage, you will need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
Consider discussing your options with a licensed insurance agent or reaching out to your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for personalized guidance and assistance with choosing and enrolling in a Medigap plan.
Remember to carefully review the plan details, coverage, costs, and any other relevant information before making a decision.

Medicare Supplement coverage, also known as Medigap, is private health insurance designed to supplement and fill the gaps in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). Medicare Supplement plans are offered by private insurance companies and are regulated by both federal and state laws.
Here’s how Medicare Supplement coverage works:

1. Enrollment: To be eligible for a Medicare Supplement plan, you must already be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. The best time to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which begins on the first day of the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, you have guaranteed issue rights, meaning the insurance company cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums based on pre-existing conditions.
2. Coverage and Benefits: Medicare Supplement plans are standardized and labeled with letters (such as Plan A, Plan B, etc.). Each plan offers a different set of benefits, but all plans of the same letter provide the same coverage, regardless of the insurance company offering them. The standardized nature of Medicare Supplement plans allows you to compare coverage and benefits easily.
3. Cost Sharing: Medicare Supplement plans help cover certain out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare doesn’t fully pay, such as deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. Depending on the plan you choose, it may cover some or all of these costs. For example, some plans may cover the Medicare Part A and B deductibles, while others may cover a percentage of your coinsurance or copayments.
4. Provider Choice: With Medicare Supplement coverage, you have the flexibility to see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare patients. There are no network restrictions, meaning you can receive care from any healthcare provider nationwide who accepts Medicare.
5. Premiums: Medicare Supplement plans have monthly premiums that you pay to the insurance company. Premium amounts can vary depending on factors such as your age, location, and the specific plan you choose. It’s important to review and compare the premiums of different Medicare Supplement plans before making a decision.
6. Coordination with Original Medicare: Medicare Supplement plans work alongside Original Medicare. This means you will still be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B, and your Medicare Supplement plan will help cover certain costs that Medicare doesn’t cover.

It’s important to note that Medicare Supplement plans do not cover prescription drugs. If you want prescription drug coverage, you will need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
In summary, Medicare Supplement coverage is private health insurance that helps fill the gaps in Original Medicare. It provides additional coverage for out-of-pocket costs and offers flexibility in choosing healthcare providers. Comparing different Medicare Supplement plans can help you find the coverage that best suits your needs and budget.