Medicare Supplement

Original Medicare, comprising Part A and B, covers numerous health-care services and supplies, yet it does not cover all expenses. To bridge this gap, Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap, are available through private insurance companies. These plans assist in covering certain costs not paid by Original Medicare, including copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Some Medigap plans offer additional benefits like emergency overseas travel coverage and Part B excess charges. Importantly, Medigap plans supplement but do not replace Original Medicare, requiring enrollees to maintain their Original Medicare coverage. Medigap plans do not cover prescription drugs, necessitating separate Part D enrollment for medication costs. Eligibility for Medigap plans varies by state, especially for individuals under 65 with specific disabilities or conditions. When combined with Original Medicare, Medigap policies help cover remaining healthcare costs, enhancing overall coverage and reducing out-of-pocket expenses for beneficiaries.