OVERVIEW OF MEDIGAP POLICIES
A Medigap policy is a health insurance policy
sold by private insurance companies to fill gaps in Original Medicare plan coverage.
Medigap helps pay when Original Medicare doesn't cover the full cost of services. It is
desirable because Medicare covers less than the total cost of the beneficiaries health
care. Both Medicare A and B have gaps in coverage.
Medigap policies must follow federal and state
laws. The front of the Medigap policy must clearly identify it as "Medicare
Supplement Insurance".
- In all states, except Massachusetts, Minnesota and
Wisconsin, a Medigap policy must be one of ten standardized polices. For Plans
benefits in Connecticut, go for the following link: Supplemental
Plans
- The polices are identified by the letters A-J.
Each policy has a different set of benefits. Plan A covers the least amount of gaps and
Plan J, the most.
- Costs of the plans vary depending on the coverage.
The beneficiary chooses the plan that best meets his medical services needs. Click
on the following link for the latest MedigapRates
or RatesinSpanish
- There are many considerations when purchasing
Medigap insurance.
- The person's medical needs are important.
- Another major consideration is cost.
- Also, underwriting practices, pre-existing
condition limitations and the ability to switch from one policy to another
should be examined.
For more information regarding Medigap polices, contact:
- CHOICES program at your local Area Agency
on Aging. It is the designated State Health Insurance Program (SHIP), and is funded by the
Federal Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Information is free of
charge. Services include direct phone contact, mailing of printed materials, as well
as referral to other community counselors.
- Phone: (800)-994-9422 or
(203)333-9288
- e-mail: MWong@SWCAA.org or GDiaz@SWCAA.org
or JPeterson@swcaa.org
- Visit www.ctelderlyservices.state.ct.us/PubsFrm.htm
for other information on Medigap plans.
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