Medicare supplement plans help fill the gaps in Original Medicare coverage.
If you’re approaching 65 or already enrolled in Medicare, you’ve likely discovered that Original Medicare doesn’t cover everything. Those gaps in coverage can add up quickly, leaving you with unexpected medical bills.
That’s where Medicare supplement plans come in—they’re designed to help pay for the out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover.
Key Takeaways
- Medicare supplement plans (also called Medigap) work alongside Original Medicare to help cover copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles
- Plans are standardized by the federal government with letters (A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N), making coverage easy to compare
- Plan G is currently the most comprehensive option for new Medicare beneficiaries
- You can see any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare—no network restrictions
- Enrollment is easiest during your Medicare supplement Open Enrollment Period starting when you turn 65
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Understanding Medicare Supplement Plans
Medicare supplement plans are private insurance policies that help pay the healthcare costs Original Medicare doesn’t fully cover.
Think of Original Medicare as your foundation. It covers many healthcare services, but it leaves you responsible for deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. A Medicare supplement plan acts as a protective layer that helps pay those out-of-pocket expenses.
These plans are also called “Medigap” because they fill the gaps in Medicare coverage. Insurance companies sell them, but the federal government standardizes the coverage.
Most Popular Plan Options
Plan G has become the most popular choice for new Medicare beneficiaries.
This plan covers everything except the Medicare Part B deductible, which is $257 in 2026. Once you meet that deductible, Plan G covers your remaining Medicare-approved costs. You’ll have predictable expenses and minimal surprise bills throughout the year.
Plan N offers slightly lower premiums than Plan G. With Plan N, you’ll pay the Part B deductible plus small copayments for doctor visits (up to $20) and emergency room visits (up to $50).
How These Plans Work
Medicare supplement plans coordinate seamlessly with Original Medicare.
When you receive medical care, Medicare Part A or Part B pays first. Your Medicare supplement plan then pays second, covering some or all of the remaining balance. You don’t need to file separate claims—your doctor’s office handles everything automatically.
One major advantage is complete doctor choice. You can see any doctor or hospital anywhere in the United States that accepts Medicare. There are no network restrictions, no referrals needed, and no prior authorizations required.
When to Enroll
The best time to buy a Medicare supplement plan is during your Medicare supplement Open Enrollment Period.
This six-month period begins the first day of the month you’re both 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this window, insurance companies cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums because of health conditions.
Get a Free Medicare Advantage Quote
Select whether you would like quotes on Medicare Advantage and MAPD plans, or Part D prescription plans.
Get Expert Help with Your Medicare Decision
Choosing the right Medicare supplement plan requires careful consideration of your healthcare needs and budget.
Schedule a free consultation with one of our Medicare Personal Benefits Managers at MediGap Advisors. We’ll compare plans from multiple top-rated insurance companies and help you find coverage that fits your needs. Call us today at 800-913-3416 or visit MediGapAdvisors.com to take the confusion out of Medicare planning.
For Further Reading:
Do Medicare supplement plans cover prescription drugs?
No, you’ll need a separate Medicare Part D plan for prescription drug coverage.
Can I switch Medicare supplement plans?
You can apply anytime, but insurance companies can use medical underwriting outside your Open Enrollment Period.
What are the costs?
Monthly premiums vary significantly by insurance company, location, and age. Plan G premiums typically range from $120 to $250 monthly, even though coverage is identical across all companies.
Whitney Kline is one of your Personal Benefits Managers at Medigap Advisors. She loves working for Medigap Advisors especially helping clients choose the right Medicare plan.