What is Supplemental Medicare?

A Medicare supplement, also known as Medigap, covers some of your expenses that Medicare doesn’t pay. Some of the things it covers are copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. A Medigap policy can help keep your healthcare costs down by covering many of your out-of-pocket expenses. These policies are sold by private insurance companies and work together with original Medicare. You must have Medicare Parts A and B to purchase a Medicare supplement. This goes with Medicare coverage, it does not replace it.

Different supplements may offer different benefits. It’s important to consider your needs when choosing a supplement. For example, some only cover you while you are inside the United States, while others provide coverage when you travel abroad.

You can buy a supplement from a private insurance company licensed in the state where you live. Cost varies by area. The premium for this coverage is paid in addition to Medicare Part B. This policy only covers one person, so if you and your spouse want to have coverage, you’ll each need a policy.