Once you are Medicare-eligible, you may decide that Medigap is right for you. Here are the things you need to do before enrolling in Medigap.
1) Get Medicare Part B
Many think that Medicare Part A is enough, however that only covers seniors over 65 for hospitalization, as well as, you need both Part A and Part B to enroll in Medigap. The following is what Medicare Part B covers:
- Lab Tests
- Surgeries
- Doctor visits
- Wheelchairs
- Walkers
2) Medigap Fills in Medicare’s Gaps
As you may know, Medigap can fill in the gaps that Medicare leaves. Some of the items that Medigap may cover are deductibles, copays, co-insurance, extend hospitalization by 365 days, and foreign emergency care. Medigap plans vary in coverage from basic to comprehensive. Each plan covers you a little differently. If you are looking for the most comprehensive coverage you would want to get Plan F. Remember Medigap Plan F is generally the most expensive Medigap plan.
3) Compare Medigap Plan A and Plan F
Medigap Plan A is basic coverage and Plan F is the most comprehensive.
| Benefits | Medigap Plan A | Medigap Plan F |
|---|---|---|
| Part A coinsurance and hospital costs up to 365 days after Medicare benefits finish | Yes | Yes |
| Part B coinsurance or copayment | Yes | Yes |
| Blood (first 3 pints) | Yes | Yes |
| Part A hospice care coinsurance/copayment | Yes | Yes |
| Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance | No | Yes |
| Part A deductible | No | Yes |
| Part B deductible | No | Yes |
| Part B excess charges | No | Yes |
| Foreign travel exchange (up to plan limits) | No | Yes |
4) Medigap Options on a Budget
If you still want comprehensive coverage but don’t want to pay a higher monthly premium there are two options:
- Plan F high deductible offers the same coverage as Original F but with a lower monthly premium.
- Plan F Select offers the same financial coverage but in a local network
.
Next Steps
To complete you package get Medicare Part D coverage for Prescription drugs. For assistance with Medigap call the number above or go to our Senior65.com Medigap Page.