Medicare & Supplemental Insurance

Filling the Gaps in Your Coverage

Medicare provides essential health coverage, but it doesn’t cover everything. Out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance can quickly add up, leaving you responsible for significant expenses. That’s where Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) comes in—helping to cover these gaps so you can enjoy greater financial security and peace of mind.

Woman looking out the window with her granddaughter

How Does Medicare Supplement Insurance Work?

If you’re 65 or older or qualify due to a disability, you may already have Medicare Part A and Part B, also known as Original Medicare. While these plans cover hospital stays, doctor visits, and medical services, they don’t pay for everything. Medicare Supplement Insurance works alongside your Original Medicare plan to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.


Step One: Start with Medicare Part A & Part B


  • Medicare Part A – Covers hospital stays, rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and hospice care
  • Medicare Part B – Covers doctor visits, preventive care, outpatient services, and emergency care


Step Two: Fill the Gaps with a Medicare Supplement Plan


After enrolling in Medicare, you can choose to add extra coverage through a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan or a Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plan:


  • Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) – Helps cover Medicare deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. This plan works alongside your Original Medicare (Parts A & B) but requires separate Part D prescription drug coverage if needed.
  • Medicare Advantage (Part C) – A private health insurance plan that bundles Parts A & B and may include prescription drug coverage, vision, dental, and other benefits.
  • Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) – A standalone drug plan that covers the cost of prescription medications. If you choose Medigap, you will need a separate Part D plan for prescription coverage.


Why Consider Medicare Supplement Insurance?

1

Lower Out-of-Pocket Costs

Covers expenses like copays, deductibles, and coinsurance, reducing unexpected medical bills.

2

Freedom to Choose Your Doctor

Unlike Medicare Advantage plans, Medigap plans let you see any doctor that accepts Medicare.

3

No Network Restrictions

You aren’t limited to a provider network, making it easier to access care when and where you need it.

Medicare Supplemental Insurance FAQs

Still Have Questions About Medicare Supplemental Insurance? See our FAQs.

  • What is Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)?

    Medicare Supplement Insurance, also known as Medigap, is a private insurance policy that helps cover out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare (Parts A & B) does not pay, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.

  • What’s the difference between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage?

    Medicare Supplement (Medigap) works alongside Original Medicare to cover out-of-pocket costs, while Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that may include additional benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.

  • Who is eligible for a Medicare Supplement Plan?

    You are eligible if you are enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B and are 65 or older. In some cases, individuals under 65 with a qualifying disability may also be eligible.

  • When can I enroll in a Medicare Supplement Plan?

    The best time to enroll is during your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period, which begins the first month you have Medicare Part B and are 65 or older. This six-month window allows you to enroll without medical underwriting, meaning insurers cannot deny coverage or charge higher premiums due to health conditions

  • Can I be denied coverage for a Medicare Supplement Plan?

    If you apply outside of your six-month Open Enrollment Period, insurers may require medical underwriting and could deny coverage or charge higher rates based on pre-existing conditions.

  • Do Medicare Supplement Plans cover prescription drugs?

    No, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans do not include prescription drug coverage. If you need medication coverage, you will need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.

  • Can I switch Medicare Supplement Plans later?

    Yes, but switching after your Open Enrollment Period may require medical underwriting, and you may not be guaranteed acceptance. It’s important to choose the right plan from the start to avoid potential issues down the road.

  • Can I keep my doctor with a Medicare Supplement Plan?

    Yes, Medicare Supplement plans allow you to see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare, without network restrictions or referrals.

  • How much does Medicare Supplement Insurance cost in Connecticut?

    The cost varies based on your age, plan type, location, and health status. On average:


    Plan G: $150 – $250 per month

    Plan N: $120 – $200 per month

  • What is the best Medicare Supplement Plan?

    The best plan depends on your needs. Some popular choices include:


    Plan G – Offers the most comprehensive coverage for new enrollees, covering nearly all Medicare out-of-pocket costs except the Part B deductible.


    Plan N – A lower-cost option with small copays for doctor and ER visits.


    Plan F – Covers everything but is only available to those who qualified for Medicare before 2020.