What Does Medigap Insurance Cover

By Larry Price


People who are close to retirement age should take the time to find out how they apply for Medicare benefits as well as gap coverage. The first thing to do is learn what gap coverage will do. Gap plans are purchased from a private company to supplement your Medicare coverage. The Medigap insurance coverage picks up the costs that the original Medicare does not cover. These costs include co pays, deductibles, and cost for care outside the US.

The gap plans do not cover hearing aids, glasses, vision care, or dental work. Additionally, private duty nursing and long term care is not covered by gap plans. Prescription medications are covered by choosing a separate policy under Part D. Gap coverage has its own monthly premium which is separate from Part D, prescription coverage, and Medicare B which covers doctor charges.

Only folks who are already covered by Medicare A and B are eligible for gap insurance. Part A covers hospital and part B pays for doctor costs. It is important to know that if you have an Advantage plan, the gap coverage is not available to you. It is also important to learn which plans are offered where you live. Information is available online or through the department of insurance for your state.

The standard plans, A through N, offer diverse levels of coverage. It is a good idea to compare the plans side by side. This comparison will help you understand which policy will best meet your needs. New subscribers can no longer get plans E, H, I, or J.

Each company charges different premium amounts for their coverage. It is important to note that all standard plans offer the same benefits. For instance, plan C has the same benefits regardless of the company that is offering it. Not all the states require the same standards for gap coverage plans.

The time to buy gap policies is during the period of open enrollment. Enrollment time is 6 months before the first day of the month you turn sixty five. In order to qualify for gap coverage need to have Medicare part B or be within six months of the date of enrolled. People can buy coverage during this time for the same cost a person with no health issues.

Attempting to purchase a gap policy after this window of opportunity has closed, does not guarantee you will be able to get the coverage. In the event that you do obtain coverage, you run the risk that your premiums will be higher. It is important to know that in addition to the premium you pay for Medicare B, you will be paying a premium to an insurance company for the gap plan.

Premiums are dependent on the policy that you select, where you live, how old are you, and the insurance company you purchase from. Paying your premium on a standardized plan on time guarantees that you will be renewed. Even if you have a pre existing health problem, you will be guaranteed the policy will renew.




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