A Medicare Supplement policy is health insurance sold by private insurance companies to fill the “gaps” in Original Medicare Plan coverage. Medicare Supplement policies help pay some of the health care costs that the Original Medicare Plan does not cover.
When you buy a Medicare Supplement policy you must have Medicare Part A and Part B. You will have to pay the monthly Medicare Part B premium. In addition, you will have to pay a premium to the Medicare Supplement insurance company.
Some of the key features of a Medicare Supplement policy are:
- There is no network. You are free to see any provider as long as they participate with Medicare.
- There are no referrals.
- These policies help to reduce or eliminate copays, deductibles and coinsurance in Original Medicare Part A and B.
- Medicare Supplement plans do not include prescription drug coverage. This allows you to choose any Medicare Part D prescription plan in your area.
- The insurance company cannot change your benefits.
- If you select a Medicare Supplement plan when you are first eligible there is no medical underwriting. Any other time you may be subject to medical underwriting and could be declined.
- Generally, the price of Medicare Supplement policy will rise as you get older (this is known as an attained age policy).
For more information about choosing a Medicare Supplement policy, please refer to the Medicare Publication, Choosing a Medicare Supplement Policy.
