Medicare

Medicare Supplement Plans

Sometimes referred to as “Medigap” insurance, Medicare supplement plans can help with expenses that your existing Medicare A and B policies do not cover. Medicare supplement plans can help with many out-of-pocket expenses once Medicare has paid its share, such as:

• Deductibles
• Copays
• Coinsurance
• Hospital costs
• Skilled nursing facility costs
• Emergency medical services outside the US

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is available to people who are already enrolled in Medicare Part A and B. Medicare Part C offers coverage beyond the regular care covered by A and B, like outpatient care, lab tests, hospital care, home health, skilled nursing, medical equipment, and surgery.

Medicare Advantage can provide additional benefits, including:

• Hearing
• Vision
• Dental
• Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs
• Nutrition, fitness, & wellness programs
• Senior day care
• Medically necessary transportation

Medicare Part C is usually only open to enrollment during certain times, including:

• Your initial coverage election period three months before and three months after turning 65
• The annual election period in autumn
• The Medicare Advantage open enrollment period
• Special election periods for which you qualify

Medicare Part D Insurance (Drug Plans)

Medicare Part D is a prescription drug plan for essential medications. This coverage usually provides significant savings to those who enroll, as they only have to pay copays or a small percentage of prescription drug costs. It is possible to purchase Medicare Part D insurance as a standalone plan.

There is some information you should be aware of if you elect to purchase Medicare Part D coverage:

• You pay an annual deductible as with other insurance policies. Once you have satisfied this deductible, your insurance coverage begins.
• Drug availability may be based on your plan’s formulary, but there are usually excellent options and generic drugs available.
• Once you exceed your plan’s coverage and out-of-pocket expenses, you may be eligible for catastrophic coverage. This is helpful for people who take many medications, whether for chronic conditions or after an unexpected acute health incident.

Once you are eligible for Medicare Part A and B, you can also sign up for Part D drug coverage.