This article deals with historical enrollment information for reference only. The number below do not reflect current enrollment data.
According to a Kaiser Family Foundation 2013 (KFF) study, 88% of all Medicare beneficiaries also had a form of additional insurance in the form of Medicare supplemental plan (Medigap), Medicare Advantage or Part D drug coverage. Medigap accounted for 24% of seniors, with 14% of seniors enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan (Medicare Part C). Over 88% had purchased a Part D drug plan.
Variations in State Medigap Enrollment
North Dakota has the highest enrollment of Medigap policyholders at 51%, while Hawaii is the lowest with 2%. These figures are astonishingly different.
Why would this be? Usually the main reason someone goes with a Medicare Advantage plan is due to budgetary constraints. As an MA plan replaces Original Medicare and adds on benefits such as Rx coverage, vision, dental, and gym memberships, with one premium. However, there are drawbacks to Medicare Part C, such as it is only required to cover what Original Medicare covers, so there can be gaps in coverage.
Medigap plans are generally more expensive than a Medicare Advantage plan. Medigap fills in many of the gaps that Medicare doesn’t. To learn more read our article “Compare Medicare Supplement to Medicare Advantage.”
Most Popular Medigap Plans Nationwide
The most popular Medigap plans nationwide according to the KFF 2013 study are the ones with “first-dollar coverage.” What this phrase means is Medigap pays in the very first time you seek medical care (this is of course after Medicare pays its initial portion). By an overwhelming figure of 54% of all Medigap policies sold fall into this category.
According to the KFF study, the majority of plans sold are Medigap Plan F and Medigap Plan C. Both plans cover 100% of Part A coinsurance for hospital stays, and extend hospital stays to 365, 100% of Part B coinsurance, 100% of coinsurance/copays for Hospice and Skilled Nursing Care, 100% of Part A and B deductibles, and foreign emergency care. Plan F also covers Plan B excess charges. To learn about potential savings from having a comprehensive plan read, “Can’t Afford F? Think Again.”
Medigap Premiums Less for Women
Most women are used to paying more for their health insurance, however once that 65 year mark is met women start paying less than men. Men pay up to 20% more for their premium than women. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, “Among beneficiaries with Medigap, Medicare spent 8 percent more per male policy.”
For further questions about Medigap call 800-930-7956 or contact Senior65.com.