Original Medicare covers the basics for boomers but can leave some major gaps in coverage. This is where Medigap kicks in.
What is Medigap?
What is Medigap? Medigap is Medicare Supplemental insurance that helps pays for the fees (gaps) that Medicare does not pay for. You keep Original Medicare but Medigap helps to cover costs Medicare passes on to the patient.
What does Medigap Cover?
There are 10 Medigap plans that vary how/if they cover a service. Here’s a list of what the most comprehensive plan, Medigap Plan F, covers:
- Extends hospitalization by 365 days
- Covers 1st 3 pints of blood
- Medicare Part A & B deductibles
- Hospital coinsurance
- Skilled Nursing coinsurance
- Hospice coinsurance
- Part B coinsurance and copays
- Part B excess charges
- Foreign emergency healthcare
- Nationwide coverage
When to Enroll in Medigap?
You’ll want to enroll when you’re first eligible: period automatically starts the month you’re 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B.
Do Preexisting Conditions Affect Medigap Enrollment?
Not during your open enrollment period, but after your first six months you are subject to medical underwriting, as well as your premium could be much higher. It should be noted that it can be very difficult to enroll after your initial period.
How Much Does Medigap Cost?
There are 10 Medigap plans available that vary from basic to comprehensive coverage, therefore the cost can vary quite a bit. The good news is Medigap plans are standardized so that each lettered plan A-N is equal to its counterpart in coverage, so you only have to compare plans based off price.
For further questions about Medigap call the number above or click here to get an instant Medigap quote.