What Is Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)?
Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) FAQ
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A Medicare Supplement plan, also known as Medigap, is private insurance that helps cover the out-of-pocket costs not paid by Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). This includes deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
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Medigap is designed to work with Original Medicare:
• Medicare pays first (the approved amount)
• Medigap pays second, covering eligible costs like coinsurance or deductibles
You must be enrolled in both Part A and Part B to purchase a Medigap policy.
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• Covers costs like Part A deductible, Part B coinsurance, excess charges
• No provider networks – see any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare
• Freedom to get second opinions without referrals or restrictions
• Some plans include foreign emergency coverage (good for international travelers)
• Standardized coverage – Plan G is the same regardless of the insurance company
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No. Medigap plans do not cover prescriptions. You need to enroll in a separate Part D drug plan if you want prescription coverage.
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Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period lasts for 6 months starting the month you are:
• Age 65 or older, and
• Enrolled in Medicare Part B
During this window:
• You can enroll in any Medigap plan available in your state
• You cannot be denied coverage or charged more based on health
After this period, you may have to go through medical underwriting, and your application could be declined or priced higher due to preexisting conditions.
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No. Medigap and Medicare Advantage cannot be used together. You must choose one or the other.
