As a member of the 65 plus club, you may want to consider a Medicare supplement (Medigap)
insurance policy to help cover healthcare costs that Original Medicare doesn't fully pay for.
Medigap policies are sold by private companies and can assist with copayments, coinsurance,
and deductibles.
In addition to filling the gaps in Original Medicare coverage, some Medigap policies offer
additional benefits, such as coverage for medical care when traveling outside the U.S. If you have
Original Medicare and a Medigap policy, Medicare will first pay its share of the Medicare-
approved amount for covered healthcare services, and then your Medigap policy will cover its
share.
It's important to note that a Medigap policy is different from a Medicare Advantage Plan. While
Medicare Advantage Plans provide Medicare benefits, Medigap policies solely supplement your
Original Medicare benefits.
However, it's essential to understand that Medigap policies do not cover everything. Long-term care, vision or dental care, hearing aids, eyeglasses, and private-duty nursing are generally not covered by Medigap policies.
It's also worth knowing that there are other types of insurance that are not considered Medigap
plans. These include Medicare Advantage Plans (such as HMOs, PPOs, or Private Fee-for-Service
Plans), Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, Medicaid, employer or union plans (including the
Federal Employees Health Benefits Program), TRICARE, veterans' benefits, long-term care
insurance policies, and Indian Health Service, Tribal, and Urban Indian Health plans.
As you navigate your healthcare coverage options as a member of the 65 plus club, consider the
benefits and limitations of Medigap policies in comparison to other insurance options available
to you. Understanding your specific needs and preferences will help you make the best decision
for your healthcare coverage.