Asked by Julia from El Paso, TX
Julia:
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Medicare Supplement Insurance (also known as Medigap coverage) “is health insurance sold by private insurance companies to fill the ‘gaps’ in Original Medicare Plan coverage. Medigap policies help pay some of the health care costs that the Original Medicare Plan doesn’t cover. If you are in the Original Medicare Plan and have a Medigap policy, then Medicare and your Medigap policy will pay both their shares of covered health care costs.”
“Not everyone needs a Medicare supplement policy,” says the Texas Department of Insurance. “If you have certain other types of health coverage, the gaps in your Medicare coverage may already be covered.”
Facts:
- Medigap policies don’t cover spouses
- Medigap plans A-L have standardized coverage levels, but costs can still vary, so shop around
- Medigap plans must comply with federal and state laws be clearly identified as “Medicare Supplement Insurance”
Related article: Choosing a Medigap Policy: a Guide to Health Insurance for People with Medicare
Please note: InsureMe Answers is not intended to be a substitute for advice from a licensed professional. For specific questions about a policy or claim, please contact your insurance agent or company.