Help Fill the Gaps in Original Medicare
Medicare Supplement insurance — also called Medigap — can help with certain out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare does not pay. Fair & Kind helps you understand your options in plain English.
What Is Medicare Supplement Insurance?
A clear, simple explanation of how Medigap works.
Medicare Supplement insurance is private insurance that works alongside Original Medicare. It is designed to help pay certain out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare does not pay, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Medicare Supplement insurance is commonly called Medigap. You must have Medicare Part A and Part B to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan, and the plan helps with costs that remain after Original Medicare pays its share.
Medicare Supplement coverage works with Original Medicare, not Medicare Advantage.
What Can Medicare Supplement Coverage Help With?
Depending on the plan, coverage may help with several types of out-of-pocket costs.
Deductibles
Depending on the plan, Medicare Supplement coverage may help with certain Medicare deductibles that you would otherwise pay out of pocket.
Coinsurance
Depending on the plan, a Medicare Supplement policy may help pay the coinsurance portion for Medicare-covered services.
Copayments
Depending on the plan, coverage may help with certain copayments for Medicare-approved services.
Other Approved Costs
Depending on the plan, Medicare Supplement coverage may help with other Medicare-approved out-of-pocket costs not paid by Original Medicare.
Coverage depends on the specific Medicare Supplement plan selected. Not every plan covers every cost, and benefits vary by plan.
What Isn't Included?
Medicare Supplement policies generally do not cover everything.
Prescription drug coverage is typically obtained separately through Medicare Part D when appropriate. A Medicare Supplement policy is not a substitute for standalone drug coverage.
Standardized benefits are the same for plans with the same letter where federal standardization applies, but policies and insurers may differ in other respects.
Understanding Medicare Supplement Plans
Plans are commonly identified by letters. Here's what to know.
Medicare Supplement plans are commonly identified by letters. Where federal standardization applies, plans with the same letter generally provide the same standardized core benefits, regardless of which insurance company offers the plan.
However, several things can differ from one insurance company to another:
- Premiums can vary by insurance company, even for the same plan letter.
- Pricing methods can differ between insurance companies.
- Availability of specific plans can vary by area and insurer.
- Insurance-company service and other considerations may differ.
What Should You Consider?
Practical things to think about when exploring Medicare Supplement coverage.
How Fair & Kind Helps
A simple, personal process — no pressure, just clear guidance.
Understand Your Needs
Fair & Kind begins by understanding your situation, priorities, and preferences.
Review Available Options
Available Medicare Supplement options can be reviewed based on relevant coverage and cost considerations.
Compare the Differences
Fair & Kind helps you understand differences such as premiums, plan type, carrier preference, and other relevant considerations.
Help You Move Forward
Fair & Kind can assist with appropriate next steps once you have made an informed choice.
Considering Medicare Advantage Instead?
Medicare Advantage is a different way to receive Medicare coverage and is not used together with Medicare Supplement insurance. Neither approach is better than the other — it depends on your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Medicare Supplement insurance, answered in plain English.
Let's Find the Coverage That Fits Your Situation
Contact Fair & Kind for help understanding Medicare Supplement options and how they might fit with your coverage needs.
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