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Medicare Supplements - What You Need to Know

Understanding Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)

Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap policies, are private insurance plans designed to fill the "gaps" left by

Original Medicare (Parts A and B). While Medicare covers many healthcare services, it doesn’t cover everything — such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. That’s where a Medigap plan steps in.

These plans are offered by private insurance companies and work alongside your Medicare coverage — not in place of it. In short, Medigap gives you greater financial protection and peace of mind by reducing unexpected medical bills.

How Medicare Supplement Plans Work

To enroll in a Medigap plan, you must first be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B. Once you have a Medigap plan, it will help pay for costs that Medicare doesn’t, such as:

Part A and B Deductibles
Hospital and Skilled Nursing Facility Coinsurance
Doctor Visit Copays
Emergency Care while Traveling Abroad

IMPORTANT NOTE: Medicare Supplement plans do not include prescription drug coverage. You'll need a separate Part D Plan for that.

Benefits of a Medicare Supplement Plan

1. Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs

Medigap helps cover expenses that you'd otherwise pay out-of-pocket with Original Medicare - including copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. This includes a 20% co-insurance for outpatient services.

2. Nationwide Access to Providers

You can visit any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare. There are no provider networks, giving you true freedom of choice. This is not the case with Medicare Advantage plans.

3. Predictable Monthly Premiums

You'll know what to expect each month, which helps you budget more easily and avoid unexpected healthcare costs.

4. Guaranteed Renewable

Once enrolled, your plan can't be cancelled due to health issues or the number of claims you make, as long as you continue paying your premium.

5. Coverage While Traveling Abroad

Some Medigap Plans include coverage for emergency care when traveling outside of the United States, which Original Medicare does not.

6. Standardized Coverage

Each plan type (e.g., Plan G, Plan N) offers the SAME benefits no matter which insurance company you buy from. This makes comparing and shopping plans easier. A licensed broker like us will be able to shop multiple carriers for you. Making it less of a headache.

7. No Referrals Required

You don't need a referral to see a specialist. You can manage your care freely and independently.

Is a Medicare Supplement Plan Right for You?

If you want predictable costs, freedom to choose your providers, and additional peace of mind with your healthcare coverage, a Medigap plan might be the right choice for you. It's especially valuable for individuals who:

Frequently visit doctors or specialists
Travel often within or outside of the U.S.
Want minimal out-of-pocket costs in retirement
Prefer consistent and dependable coverage

When Can you Enroll?

ANYTIME! There are no enrollment periods for Medicare Supplement plans. The best time to enroll is when you are turning 65, or losing credible coverage from an employer because you are GURANTEED to get accepted no matter what health conditions you may have. No need to wait for Open Enrollment Period.

Need Help Choosing a Medigap Plan?

At Health Shield Insurance, we specialize in helping you compare Medicare Supplement plans and find the one that best fits your needs and budget. If you are turning 65, losing employer health benefits, or already on Medicare. We can help! Contact us today for a free consultation with no obligation.