Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
A Medicare Supplement, also called Medigap, is a policy from a private company that helps pay costs Original Medicare leaves to you — deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. It only works with Original Medicare, not with Medicare Advantage.
How a Supplement works
Original Medicare pays its share of a covered bill first. Your Supplement then pays some or all of what is left, depending on the plan you choose.
With Original Medicare you can see any doctor or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare. There is no network to check.
Plans are standardized by letter
In Georgia and most states, Supplement plans are named by letter. Two plans with the same letter have the same basic benefits, even from different companies.
The price is what differs. That is why comparing companies for the same plan letter is worth doing.
Timing matters
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period lasts 6 months. It starts the first month you have Part B and are 65 or older.
During that window, companies generally cannot turn you down or charge more because of your health. After it ends, they usually can.
What a Supplement does not include
Plan for these separately:
- Prescription drugs: you need a separate Part D drug plan
- Coverage for your spouse: each policy covers one person
- Most dental, vision, and hearing care
How SRS helps
A licensed insurance agent at Senior Retirement Solutions explains the plan letters in plain language, compares companies for the plan you want, and helps you get the timing right. No decision is required on the first call.
Common questions
Is a Supplement better than Medicare Advantage?
Neither is right for everyone. A Supplement usually means a higher monthly premium and more predictable costs. Medicare Advantage usually means a network and copays as you go.
Can I switch from Medicare Advantage to a Supplement later?
Sometimes, but outside your Open Enrollment Period the company can usually review your health first. Talk with a licensed SRS advisor before you drop any coverage.