Medicare Supplemental Insurance is designed to cover the gaps in Original Medicare. Medicare Supplemental Insurance is offered by private insurance companies and is available in a wide range of plans. They are all required to offer a set of basic benefits, but some Medicare Supplemental Insurance policies are designed to offer more. Original Medicare pays for a sizable portion of the healthcare services you need, but you are responsible for paying some portion, including copays, deductibles, and coinsurance.
Medicare Supplemental Insurance can help pay the out-of-pocket costs, up to set policy limits. Some policies will cover a portion of the cost of treatment if you become ill while out of the country.
Am I Eligible for a Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan?
To be eligible, you must have Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B and will need to pay a monthly premium for the Medicare Supplemental Insurance. These policies cover an individual, not a couple, so both spouses must have a policy. Suppose you currently have a Medicare Advantage Plan (Medicare Part C). In that case, you are not eligible for Medicare Supplemental Insurance unless you choose to change your plan to Original Medicare, which includes Medicare Part A and Part B.
Choosing the right Medicare insurance can be challenging. Every person has unique needs, and the plan you choose matters. For assistance in buying the right Medicare Supplemental Insurance policy, you can speak with a local insurance agent who can explain your options, the cost, what each policy covers, whether you are eligible for Medicare Supplemental Insurance, or what changes could be made to become eligible.
*Disclaimer: This page has not been reviewed or endorsed by Medicare.gov or any member of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).