Medigap Made Simple PDF Print E-mail
Written by Richard Cantu   
Friday, 26 March 2010 19:15
Many are dealing with Medicare supplement plans that they simply do not understand. While the process is easy when it comes to getting extra coverage, the mere lack of information is enough to scare many away entirely.
by RichardCantu


Many are dealing with Medicare supplement plans that they simply do not understand. While the process is easy when it comes to getting extra coverage, the mere lack of information is enough to scare many away entirely.

Finding information regarding Medicare supplements written in plain English can be difficult, at least until now. If you have ever been confused by the maximum benefit limit, the supplement versus the Advantage plan, or even the variety of plans from which you may choose, you have come to the right place.

First, you should know that there are 12 Medicare supplement plans from which to choose.

These 12 Medicare supplement plans are labeled A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, and L. They are easy to find and pretty similar in many aspects.

You need to also be aware that Medicare is planning some major changes this June, including eliminating duplicate coverage by getting rid of policies E, H, I, and J. They will additionally be introducing plans M and N, which have lower premiums and offer co-pays instead. These plans are simple to choose from because all you do is compare your current coverage to the various plans and choose the one that makes the most complete match.

The premium that you pay for Medicare supplements is the cost of the policy. The premium can be paid annually, bi-annually, quarterly, or monthly with most insurance companies. However, since private insurance companies offer Medicare coverage, its premium rates and policies for payment will differ depending on the company's policies.

Medicare supplements are NOT the same as the Medicare Advantage Plan. The Medicare Advantage Plan acts IN PLACE of Medicare coverage. Supplemental coverage, contrastingly, adds to your existing Medicare coverage.

Benefits refer to the covered areas or elements that you may claim with your Medicare supplement plans. For example, some plans have a travel emergency benefit, others have a preventative care benefit, and most just come with basic benefits for medically necessary procedures and visits.

Once you have chosen a Medicare plan, you should find an insurance company that offers the plan you want at a price you can afford comlemented by the service you deserve.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.