Medicare Supplement Coverage, Explained Clearly
Medicare Supplement insurance—also called Medigap—works with Original Medicare to help pay certain deductibles, coinsurance and copayments.
What Medicare Supplement does
A Medicare Supplement policy is sold by a private insurer and supplements Original Medicare. You keep Parts A and B as your primary coverage and generally may visit any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare.
Standardized benefits
Plans with the same letter generally offer the same basic benefits regardless of insurer, although premiums and service can differ.
Enrollment timing
Your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period generally begins when you are 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B.
Separate drug coverage
Medigap policies sold today do not include prescription drug coverage. You may need a separate Medicare Part D plan.
What to compare
Benefits and access
- Which standardized benefits you need
- Travel and provider considerations
- Whether household or other discounts apply
Price and company
- Monthly premium
- How premiums may change over time
- Insurer service and financial stability
When you can apply
You may apply for Medicare Supplement insurance at different times, but federal protections are strongest during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period and certain guaranteed-issue situations. Outside those protections, an insurer may use medical underwriting where permitted. Do not cancel existing coverage until the new policy is approved and you understand its effective date.
Compare this option with Medicare Advantage, learn about Part D plans, and review enrollment periods.
Medicare Supplement questions
Is Medicare Supplement the same as Medicare Advantage?
No. Medigap supplements Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage is another way to receive Part A and Part B benefits through a private plan.
Can I use Medigap anywhere?
You can generally use it with any provider who accepts Medicare, but review the exact policy and any foreign-travel benefit.
Does Medigap include dental, vision or prescriptions?
Standard Medigap benefits do not include routine dental or vision care, and policies sold today do not include outpatient prescription coverage.
Can my premium increase?
Yes. Premiums can change. Ask how the insurer prices the policy and review notices about future rate changes.
Need help comparing Medigap policies?
A licensed Precise Insurance agent can help you compare standardized benefits, insurers and premiums available in Texas.
Precise Insurance Group is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Policy availability and premiums vary. For complete Medicare information, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE.