When you have Original Medicare and a Medigap policy, Medicare pays its share of the Medicare-approved amount for covered healthcare costs first. Then, your Medigap policy covers its portion. Note that Medicare does not contribute to the cost of Medigap premiums.
Medigap policies must adhere to federal and state regulations designed to protect you and must be clearly labeled as “Medicare Supplement Insurance.” These policies are standardized and identified by letters in most states, with each plan offering the same basic benefits but varying in additional coverage options.
In certain states, you may come across Medicare SELECT policies. These Medigap policies require you to use specific hospitals and sometimes specific doctors to receive full coverage. However, if you purchase a Medicare SELECT policy, you have the right to switch to a standard Medigap policy within 12 months if you decide it’s not the right fit for you.
Medicare is primarily used by individuals aged 65 and older, though some younger people may also qualify, including those with disabilities, permanent kidney failure, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease). While Medicare helps cover various healthcare costs, it does not fully cover all medical expenses or most long-term care costs.
Yes, you can adjust your Medicare coverage during specific enrollment periods, including the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) and the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP). Outside of these times, you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) if you experience certain life events, such as moving, losing other coverage, or becoming eligible for Medicaid.
Medicare is divided into four parts:
Part A: Hospital Insurance
Part B: Medical Insurance
Part C: Medicare Advantage Plans
Part D: Prescription Drug Coverage
For more information about Medicare, you can visit the official website at www.medicare.gov, contact the Medicare hotline at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).
© 2025 Insurance Educators ┃ All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy & Terms of Service┃ Site Design by MSFS
We are not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program.
We do not offer every plan available in your area.
Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area.
Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
© 2025 Insurance Educators
All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy & Terms of Service
Site Design by MSFS
We are not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
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