medicare supplement (medigap)
what is a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan?
A Medicare Supplement plan, also known as Medigap, is private insurance that helps cover the out-of-pocket costs Medicare Part A and Part B don’t pay—like deductibles, coinsurance, copays, and more.
These plans are available in all 50 states and can offer extra peace of mind by reducing your unexpected medical expenses. Some even include limited coverage for emergency care while traveling outside the U.S.
Why Choose a Medicare Supplement Plan?
- Predictable Costs – Know exactly what you’re responsible for after Medicare pays.
- Nationwide Access – Accepted by any doctor or hospital that takes Medicare.
- Regulated & Reliable – Standardized plans regulated by Medicare.
- Simple Process – Your provider bills Medicare and your Medigap plan
Important: Medigap plans don’t include prescription drug coverage (Part D), so you’ll need to enroll in a standalone Part D plan to ensure your medications are covered.
Choosing the Right Medicare Supplement Plan
There are 10 Medigap plans (Plan A through N), each offering different levels of coverage. It’s not one-size-fits-all. Understanding your options is crucial to selecting a plan that meets both your current and future needs.
The good news? All Medigap plans are standardized. So a Plan G from one company offers the same core benefits as a Plan G from another—the main differences are cost, customer service, and any extra features.
Since it’s not one-size-fits-all, I’m here to help you compare your options and choose the plan that gives you the right balance of coverage, cost, and flexibility.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
What is a Medicare Advantage plan?
Medicare Advantage (MA) Plans are offered by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare to provide your Part A and Part B benefits—all in one plan. Most also include prescription drug coverage (Part D).
When you enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan, Original Medicare no longer pays for your services - your plan does. These plans typically include copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, along with a yearly out-of-pocket maximum.
The most common types of MA plans are:
- HMO (Health Maintenance Organization)
- PPO (Preferred Provider Organization)
You must remain enrolled in both Medicare Part A and B to join an MA plan. Medicare pays the private insurer a set amount each month to manage your care.
Unless you qualify for a special enrollment, you can change your Medicare Advantage Plan each year during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15 – December 7.
Choosing the Right Medicare Advantage Plan
Medicare Advantage Plans can vary widely, so it’s essential to compare options and select one that meets your specific needs. Since plan benefits can change each year, reviewing them annually helps ensure you stay well-covered.
If a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan isn’t the right fit, finding the right Advantage Plan can feel overwhelming.
You don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to simplify the process and guide you every step of the way.
Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)
What is Medicare Part D?
Medicare Part D is prescription drug coverage offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. It helps cover the cost of your medications and can lower what you pay out of pocket.
You can get Part D in two ways:
- As a standalone plan (if you have Original Medicare or a Medigap plan)
- Included in most Medicare Advantage Plans
Plans and drug lists (formularies) vary, so it's important to choose one that covers your medications at the lowest cost.
Choosing the right Part D plan
Not all Medicare Part D plans are the same—each has its list of covered medications, pharmacy network, and monthly premium. That’s why it’s crucial to choose a plan that covers your prescriptions at the lowest possible cost.
We’ll help you compare plans based on:
- Your current medications
- Preferred pharmacies
- Budget and coverage needs
Choosing the right plan can save you hundreds each year. Let us help you find the best fit.
