Understanding Medicare Supplement
Learn how Medicare Supplement (Medigap) coverage works and what it covers
Medicare Supplement
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans
A Medicare Supplement plan, or Medigap policy, supplements your Original Medicare benefits.
These plans provide medical-only coverage, and benefits are guaranteed renewable as long as you pay your premium.
How it works
Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap, are designed to “close the gaps” in Original Medicare and pay for costs Original Medicare doesn’t cover.
You’ll also have the freedom to travel or live anywhere in the United States and receive plan benefits from any provider that accepts Medicare assignment.
What it helps cover
Medigap plans help cover your Medicare copays, coinsurance and deductibles.
Each type of Medigap plan has a different set of benefits and premiums, and, for an additional premium, some plans offer optional coverage.
What you pay
Costs vary depending on the plan you choose, and you must continue to pay your Part B premium along with your monthly Medicare Supplement plan premium, deductibles, copays and coinsurance.
What you should know
Medicare Supplement eligibility
To enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan, you must be eligible for Medicare Part A and enrolled in Part B.
Prescription drug coverage
Medigap plans do not include prescription drug coverage, so you’ll need to sign up for a stand-alone Part D prescription drug plan to avoid a penalty.
Applying for a Medigap plan
If you apply for a Medigap plan more than six months after the month your Part B coverage begins, you may be required to submit a health history with your application.
Support and resources
It doesn't have to be hard
Our Blue Cross Advisors are here to:
- Help you learn about Medicare basics and our plans
- Assist you in finding a plan that meets your needs
- Help you enroll in a plan
Understanding Medicare
Use this free step-by-step guide to learn about the essentials of Medicare. It covers the four parts of Medicare, when to enroll, how to avoid penalties and more.
Download Step-by-Step Guide — English (coming soon)
Download Step-by-Step Guide — Spanish (coming soon)
Free Medicare Workshops
Join us for a free, no obligation, in-person or virtual Medicare workshop to learn about Medicare and available plans based on the county you live in.
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