Comparing Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plans

Medicare supplement insurance was designed to cover holes and gaps in basic Medicare parts A and B for qualifying seniors within the age range of 65 and those with disabilities under the age of 65. Medicare is a health insurance program funded by the government designed to help seniors pay for their medical and health needs such as prescription drugs, treatments, checkups, surgeries and other accessories that make life easier for them.  Undoubtedly, that most people who are now getting to this age group are somehow going to notice substantial changes in their life with Medicare proven to be of great benefit. However, Medicare does not cover all their individual needs.  To combat this the federal government introduced Medicare supplemental insurance plans or Medigap.

Comparing the Differences of Plans

It is highly essential to compare Medicare supplemental insurance plans if you need extra health insurance to supplemental Medicare Part A and Part B. When you look at these plans, the very first thing you will realize is that they are offered by the same providers from whom you would have received coverage in the days when you were dependent on your individual plan. However, unlike the individual insurance coverage, the Medicare supplement insurance is regulated by the government and your provider can only charge a certain amount for coverage and each of the supplemental plans must cover certain costs. The Medicare supplement insurance makes it easier for you to choose a plan and you won’t have to worry about getting stuck with poor coverage that leaves you with huge bills to pay for each medical treatment.

Getting the Treatment You Need At The Price you Can Afford

Each Medicare supplemental insurance carrier offers Medigap plans A through L.  Senior will need to have Medigap plan A and B which covers the basic medical treatments and drugs prescription. With Plan B, you should also expect to pay premiums. However, Medigap plan C through L have some different options. When opting for a plan in these categories ensure you base your decision on the two major factors; the treatment that you will need and the amount you will be able to pay regarding co-pays and deductibles.

Benefits of Medigap Plans

There are series of benefits when you make the best choice of Medigap plans. Firstly, you will be covered of all various types of treatments, cares and medication that you will require to keep you healthy. Secondly, you should expect to be paying premiums only, and the best supplemental Medicare insurance will allow you to avoid those annoying deductibles and co-pays. You will never have to worry about settling bills for treatments that you believed your insurance was going to pay for.

Some other benefits of Medicare supplemental insurance plans also include vision and dental coverage which have lower copays than Medicare. Although, expensive service such as hospitalization and surgery the co-pays can tend to be higher. If you have hospitalizations in the past, ensure to check out the limitations on hospital coverage with the Medicare Advantage plans.

It is crucial to fully understand all the limits of Medicare supplemental insurance plans before choosing. Take your time to ask a reputable insurance agent about all the Medigap options available and compare them with other forms of supplemental insurance to make an informed decision about your medical coverage.

Learn more about Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans, rates and more at http://www.emedicare-supplemental-insurance.com.  Medicare Supplemental Insurance brokers will help you compare Medicare Supplemental Insurance rates and plans.  To talk to an expert in Medicare coverage toll free 877-202-9248 today!

 

When Can You Sign Up for Medicare Supplement Plans?

Medicare supplement plans are designed to cover out-of-pocket costs which include deductibles, coinsurance, co payments, and costs that are not covered by Medicare part A and B. The best time to sign up for a Medicare Supplement plan is typically during the Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment period. During this period, you would not be subjected to any form of medical underwriting, a situation where an insurance company uses an already existing medical condition as a reason to deny you medical coverage or charge you for such coverage.

Enrollment Periods and Terms

The open enrollment period usually lasts for a period of 6 months beginning on the first day of the month when you are 65 or older or when you enrolled in Medicare part B. In some states, there are Medicare Open Enrollment Periods for individuals under the age of 65. You could seize such opportunity if you fall in such category.

When the Medicare Open Enrollment Period expires, signing up for a supplement plan may not be as easy if you are trying for the first time. If you have already signed up for a Medicare Supplement plan, you may not be able to switch plans with guaranteed issue. In the absence of guarantee issue rights, insurance companies may subject you to underwriting that would ensure you are charged a premium fee for medical coverage based on your health condition.

Guarantee Issue Rights

On the other hand, there are situations where you may have guarantee issue rights even after the Open Enrollment Period. These situations could include, but are not limited to:

  • When your Medicare Supplement plan ends through no fault of yours
  • When you were misled by your insurance company
  • When you move out of an area where you enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan or the plan leaves the Medicare program
  • When you are enrolled in an employer-sponsored Original Medicare plan and the coverage of your employer ends.

Medicare Part D

It is important to note that Medicare Supplement plans do not include benefits of prescription drugs (Medicare Part D). Although some plans in the past included this coverage that is not the case today. If you already have a Medicare Part D, prescription drug coverage, ensure it is creditable so you avoid paying a penalty for late enrollment if you decide to sign up for the Part D plan soon. Medicare Supplement plans are easy to understand and if you follow the laid down directions for signing up, you can rest assured of a friendly medical coverage devoid of any penalties.

Learn more about Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans, rates and more at http://www.emedicare-supplemental-insurance.com.  Medicare Supplemental Insurance brokers will help you compare Medicare Supplemental Insurance rates and plans.  To talk to an expert in Medicare coverage toll free 877-202-9248 today!

4 Common Misconceptions About Medicare Supplemental Insurance

Also known as Medigap, Medicare supplemental insurance can be used together with Original Medicare Part A and Part B to help cover additional out-of-pocket expenses. For example, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayment as well as other benefits such as paying partial or even full coverage for overseas travel emergency care, Medicare Part B excess charges, and more. However, coverage for Medicare Supplement Insurance is standardized differently in states like Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

Medicare Supplemental Insurance is also sold by private insurance companies who are free to set their own cost for any plan. You must at least 65 years or older, be enrolled in both Part A and Part B of Medicare and live in a state that sells the plan you are interested in purchasing because not all plans are available in every state.

The best way to shop for a plan is to compare offerings from multiple insurance companies in your area because the availability and cost of any plan differ from one insurance company to another. Which brings us to the next point:

Misconceptions About Medicare Supplemental Insurance

Medicare Supplemental Insurance Brokers

Most people think that they can only buy Medicare supplemental insurance plans directly from an insurance carrier and that it would cost them more if they used an insurance broker. This is not the case. Consulting directly with an insurance broker costs you nothing, in fact, it is to your benefit to make full use of their Medicare proficiency because they have complete access to many different insurance policies that may not be available to you, some which are too complicated to comprehend.

They can not only help you understand the details of a policy and also work out what level of cover you need, but they will also help you find a good deal and even negotiate premiums on your behalf.

Comparing Medicare Supplemental Plans

Most people feel that everything is straightforward and they can figure out everything on their own. Understanding any insurance plan is challenging let alone grasping the workings of a Medicare supplemental comparison plans that come in 10 standardized benefit packages labeled from A – N. You also need to be aware of the three pricing methods which will affect your costs, prescription drug coverage, and other alternative options. It doesn’t hurt to seek expert advice to ensure you are getting the best policy at an affordable price.

Prescription Drug Coverage

Another misconception is that Medicare does not cover prescription drugs. While Original Medicare Parts A and B cover outpatient prescription drugs under limited conditions, Medicare Part D offered through private insurance companies or purchased as part of a Medicare Advantage Part C plan offers prescription drug coverage.

Medigap Eligibility

Most seniors fear that a poor medical history might render them ineligible for a Medicare supplemental plan. Well, during your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, you have the right to buy any Medigap policy offered in your state and once you enroll in Medicare Part B and you are not required to answer health questions.

Learn more about Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans, rates and more at http://www.emedicare-supplemental-insurance.com.  Medicare Supplemental Insurance brokers will help you compare Medicare Supplemental Insurance rates and plans.  To talk to an expert in Medicare coverage toll free 877-202-9248 today!

 

 

Five Reasons to Enroll in a Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan

Medicare may cover some of the costs of your healthcare, but it doesn’t cover everything. For some Americans, there can be a lot of out-of-pocket expenses that can make it harder to make ends meet. Some of this gap can be filled with Medicare supplemental insurance plans.

 

Let’s cover five good reasons why you need to enroll in a Medicare supplemental insurance plan to help you manage your health better.

  • You Travel Frequently

Various types of Medicare supplemental insurance will allow you to travel to other states or out of the country, but still be covered with health insurance. This means that you won’t have to constantly be buying supplemental insurance, and you’ll be able to save money over time.

  • You Want To Keep Your Network of Providers

If you have the Medicare Advantage Plan then you know that you must go to their providers, even if it means a long distance for you. You may also not like some of the providers, but there is little recourse for you to choose. But with other Medicare supplemental insurance plans, you can choose which healthcare network you want to go to, as long as they accept your specific insurance plan.

  • You Want To Choose Your Own Specialists

Some specialists require a referral from your doctor, which can lead to delays and perhaps not get you the best care you need if your other Medicare supplemental insurance plans don’t cover that expense. But with a good Medicare supplemental insurance you can have your choice of specialists, even without that referral, and most of the expenses can be covered.

  • Additional Costs Are Covered With Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plans

With a Medicare supplemental insurance you may get many additional costs covered, that are not covered by basic Medicare. These can include blood transfusions, extra hospital stays, nursing care, and hospice or respite care.

  • You Will Have Coverage For Life

Once you sign up for one of the Medicare supplemental insurance plans you’ll have coverage for life. You won’t be denied care because you’re too old, or because you get a specific disease or condition. This can be a comfort to many patients. You may want to note that rates can change as you get older though, but these costs adhere to a strict plan of fees that includes everyone in your state.

 

It’s of benefit for you to do a Medicare supplement comparison. Once you see the differences between plans, you can decide which may benefit your health. You may discover that Medicare Advantage may be too restrictive, so you’ll want to try Medigap or one of the other plans.

 

Even if one plan seems cheaper, it may not necessarily be right for you. Carefully read through the fine print to see exactly what is covered. You may wish to make your choice based on what your total coverage costs will be, plus out-of-pocket expenses, at the end of the year. One plan may be better for healthier people.  Once you decide on your Medicare supplement comparison, you’ll feel confident that you and your family will have the best coverage they need.

 

Learn more about Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans, rates and more at http://www.emedicare-supplemental-insurance.com.  Medicare Supplemental Insurance brokers will help you compare Medicare Supplemental Insurance rates and plans.  To talk to an expert in Medicare coverage toll free 877-202-9248 today!

 

Improvements To Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plans

Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plans are part of a federal health insurance program created for people over the age of 65. It is sold by private companies to supplement Original Medicare benefits. It offers coverage for services such as overseas travel and can be used to help pay some of the costs that are not covered by Original Medicare such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Medigap policies are standardized and are identified in most states by letters A through N to make it easy for consumers to identify the different plans and to ensure that what they purchase meets their needs.

Improvements For Medigap

There are improvements that have been made to Medigap plan for patients and provider including:

  • Two new Plans M and N with new cost-sharing rules have been added
  • Medigap Plans E, H, I, and J, including high-deductible Plan J, has been dropped
  • Preventive Care benefits were dropped from all Plans because Medicare now covers many of these benefits.
  • The in-home recovery benefit was dropped from all Plans due to underuse
  • Hospice benefits have been added to the basic benefits of Plans A through D and Plan F and G
  • Plan E is no longer available
  • Benefits for excess charges in Plan G were increased to 100%

Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans and what they cover:

Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan A – you are required to pay all deductibles, skilled nursing coinsurance, Part B excess charges and foreign travel emergency care. This plan covers:

  • 100% of 61 to 90 days of your hospitalization coinsurance including that of the first three pints of blood
  • The cost of 365 extra days of hospital care after Medicare coverage ends
  • Medicare copayment of hospice care

Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan B – you will pay your Part B deductibles, all hospitalization costs beyond the additional 365 days after the Lifetime Reserve is used up and costs that are not covered by Medicare after 21 days in a skilled nursing facility. It covers:

  • Part A deductibles
  • Medicare copayment/coinsurance of hospice care
  • The cost of 365 extra days of hospital care after Medicare coverage ends
  • 100% of your hospitalization coinsurance from 61 to 90 days as well as that of cost the first three pints of blood

Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan C – this plan doesn’t cover Medicare Part B excess charges but covers the following:

  • Medicare Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayments
  • Medicare Part B copayments and coinsurance
  • First three pints of blood for a medical procedure
  • Medicare Part A hospital coinsurance and hospital costs up to 365 days after Original Medicare benefits are exhausted
  • Skilled Nursing Facility care coinsurance
  • Medicare Part A deductible
  • Medicare Part B deductible
  • Up to 80% foreign travel emergency coverage

Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan F – is the most comprehensive supplement because it pays for all of the gaps in Original Medicare Part A and Part B, including both your hospital and outpatient deductible. This plan is not only renewable, but you can see any Medicare specialist of your choosing without any referrals.

Medicare Supplemental Insurance – High Deductible Plan F –  allow you to save on premiums while still receiving the most robust offering of Medicare Supplement but you will pay a higher out-of-pocket amount until a deductible amount is reached then your plan covers the rest of your Medicare-covered health-care costs for the rest of the year.

Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan G – this plan saves you a little money because it pays Part A deductibles and all coinsurance, which are all of the benefits of Plan F, with the exemption of Part B deductible. You only need to pay the regular yearly Medicare Part B deductible out of pocket.

Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan K – this plan covers 50% of your Part A deductible, 50% of the cost of the first three pints of blood and of the skilled nursing facility copayment on 21 to 100 days. It also covers Medicare copayment or coinsurance of hospice care, including the cost of 365 extra days of hospital care after Medicare coverage ends.

Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan L – covers 75% of coinsurance and copayments not covered by Medicare Part B as well as that of hospice care that is not covered by Medicare Part A. It also covers three pints of blood drawn, coinsurance for a skilled nursing care facility and deductibles not covered by Medicare Part A.

Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan N – has similar benefits as Plan F but you will need to pay Medicare Part B deductible, Medicare Part B excess charges, and copayments for emergency room visits that do not result in an inpatient admission out of pocket.

Contact Us

Learn more about Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans, rates and more at http://www.emedicare-supplemental-insurance.com.  Medicare Supplemental Insurance brokers will help you compare Medicare Supplemental Insurance rates and plans.  To talk to an expert in Medicare coverage toll free 877-202-9248 today!

 

Tennessee State Medicare Facts

  • There are over 1.2 million residents receiving Medicare benefits in 2015 – That is 19% of the entire state population
  • 21% of beneficiaries that became eligible in 2013 were disabled
  • A little less than 1.0% of recipients that started receiving benefits in 2013 were diagnoses with End State Renal Disease (ESRD)

Choosing the Correct TN Medicare Supplemental Insurance for Your Needs

When you are shopping for Tennessee Medicare Supplemental Insurance rates it is critical that you get as many quotes as possible from as many companies as you can.  While there are only ten standardized policies across the board, companies will charge different rates for the same plans.  Also, know that plans offering lower monthly premiums have higher deductibles.

In addition, you may pay more depending on where in Tennessee you reside as prices can vary from county to county. All ten of the plans offer different benefits and it is imperative that you select the one that will best fit your need.  If you spend a lot of time in the hospital and need to purchase a great deal on medical supplies, then you will benefit for a plan with a low deductible.

Shopping for Supplemental Insurance in Tennessee with a Pre-Existing Medical Condition

If you are shopping for Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans in Tennessee and have a pre-existing condition you will want to familiarize yourself with each company’s guidelines regarding coverage of individuals who suffer from a pre-existing health problem.  Some companies require that beneficiaries wait six months until coverage for the condition can begin while others only require a two or three  month waiting period.  This waiting period can be avoided all together by enrolling in a Supplemental Insurance Plan during your open enrollment period, otherwise known as OEP.  This is the period between the first day of the month in which you turn sixty five and are enrolled in Original Medicare Part A and Part B.  The time frame for your Open Enrollment Period, OEP, is six months.

Contact Us Today

Learn more about Tennessee Medicare Supplemental Insurance rates, plans, and more at http://www.emedicare-supplemental-insurance.com/tennessee-medicare-supplement-plans. Our Tennessee Medicare Supplemental Insurance brokers will help you compare Medicare Supplemental Insurance rates and plans.  To talk to an expert in Tennessee Medicare coverage toll free 877-202-9248 today!

Beginners Guide to Medigap

As we get older, it is customary to rely on healthcare insurance to meet the unexpected medical expenditure. Our financial assets can get depleted in no time even if we suffer from a single serious health disorder. In order to bridge the gaps in your original Medicare coverage, a Medigap policy is offered by a private insurance company. These Medigap polices cover those medical expenses which your Medicare policy does not cover.

Medicare Part and B

Medicare systems are designed for senior citizens aged 65 and above and they are made of two parts. Part A and Part B, together covers a part of the inpatient and outpatient medical expenses. There are other financial requirements for a holistic healthcare and this is where Medigap comes into the picture and provides a supplementary health care coverage along with your Medicare policy.

How Many Policies To Choose From?

Medicare policies are federal sponsored policies. On the other hand, Medigap coverage policies are sold by insurance companies. There are 12 standard Medigap policies, Plan A through L, whose benefits and price tag differ. Apart from these 12 policies, Medicare SELECT is yet another Medigap policy which is less expensive when compared to the standard Medigap policies. But only individual circumstances can settle on which Medigap policy works best for you.

Medigap coverage policy takes care of the following health care costs: Coinsurance costs for Medicare covered doctor bills, hospitalizations covered by Medicare, costs of skilled nursing care, first 3 pints of blood, costs of additional covered 365 hospital days after the Medicare covers the initial 60 days, custodial care costs, preventative care and emergency overseas healthcare treatment are some of the medical expenses taken care of Medigap policies.

Enrollment

The right time to enroll for a Medigap policy is the month after you turn 65. This is because, insurance companies cannot deny selling the policy due to some previous health disorder and the premiuim remains the same. Hence choose the right Medigap policy at the accurate time to go easy on the pocket during your retirement life.

The key benefit is that Medigap helps individuals pay for those additional cost that Medicare does not cover such as co-insurances, deductibles and premiums.

Some services may also be covered, depending on the needs of the policy holder. In addition to this, coverage is oftentimes provided (where applicable) during deductible periods. Most importantly and depending on the Medigap supplement insurance that the consumer opts for, there may be additional benefits that are not covered by traditional Medicare insurance even though Medicare will continue to pay for approved health care costs.

Consult an independent insurance agent that specializes in Medigap insurance to help guide you through the process.

Having an insurance policy is quite important to everyone who is in need of it, and every senior worries a lot about the needs for good medical insurance. When you shop with us you recommend a plan that suites your needs! You can depend on us to provide you with the type of coverage that is right for you!

Learn more about Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans, rates and more at http://www.emedicare-supplemental-insurance.com.  Medicare Supplemental Insurance brokers will help you compare Medicare Supplemental Insurance rates and plans.  To talk to an expert in Medicare coverage toll free 877-202-9248 today!

5 Tips About Medicare Supplemental Insurance

Another name that people can recognize with the term Medicare Supplemental Insurance is Medigap insurance since it is intended to fill gaps in an individual’s primary coverage through Medicare. Qualification for a Medigap policy usually required that the applicant has Medicare before Parts A and B. It is a type of insurance for anyone around the age of 65.  It is used to cover the gaps that Medicare doesn’t cover entirely which can be very enticing to some.

Before engaging in this plan, it is important for you to remember these 5 facts.

  1. 10 Standard Options

Throughout the United States, there are 10 standard options for Medicare Supplement Insurance. Each plan has different benefits so it is of your best interest to find the plan that suits your current needs. These plans are A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M and N with plan A offering the minumim list of benefits and plan F offers the largest amount.

The interesting thing about the Medigap Supplement Insurance market is that the accessibility of brokers who are ready to help you decides what plan best suits your needs. You can still apply for a Medicare Supplement with a new brokerage of a new insurance no matter your previous coverage.

NOTE: Be sure to do research before committing to any plan. This is because only a few companies carry all 10 plans. So, be careful not to fall into this trap.

  1. Enrollment Time Frames

There are a few states like Missouri and California that allow enrollment windows to Medigap beneficiaries every year. Its a good idea to look into your own state, most others have different rules. Generally you can apply for a supplemental policy when around your 65th birthday. If looking for additional information about enrollment take a look at our  Medicare Supplemental Insurance Open Enrollment page.

  1. Need For Coverage

First on your to do list is to figure out that you need this coverage. Once you verify that your Medigap insurance doesn’t include all your medical bills, you will easily discover the things you need no matter which individual insurance company you sign up with. Basically, the main qualification will be the service that they render and the premium that you will be charged for. Look over our Medigap guide page for more information.

  1. Medicare Policy

One thing you need to always remember is that your Medicare policy will not cover your life partner/spouse. Buying two separate policies is a must if you both need coverage. This is quite confusing because using past traditional insurance it did cover spouses.

  1. Premiums

Insurance companies have three individual ways to calculate and set the premiums. Those who use attained age as a basis have the lowest premiums. This is especially valid for the individuals who have just became the age of 65. You will see premiums increase normally every 3 – 5 years, in addition to the inflation rates.

Depending on your age at the time of the purchase, issue age premiums will fluctuate. The main increase for this type of plan is because of Medicare’s inflation adjustments. Another reason, Medicare supplemental insurance rates that use the community-rated technique indicates that everyone in the same region will pay the same premium, paying no attention a persons age. Many states, however, make use of only one method, so it is helpful to research and find out how the insurance companies calculate their rates.

For a free Supplemental rate call us at 877-202-9248 or feel free to browse our website at www.eMedicare-Supplemental-Insurance.com