Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)

Medicare Supplement Plans, also known as Medigap, are private insurance policies designed to help cover the "gaps" in Original Medicare (Parts A and B), such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. These plans work alongside Original Medicare and are standardized into different lettered plans (like Plan G or Plan N), each offering a specific set of benefits. Medigap does not include prescription drug coverage, so many people pair it with a standalone Part D plan. Unlike Medicare Advantage, Medigap allows you to see any doctor or specialist nationwide who accepts Medicare, offering more flexibility and fewer out-of-pocket surprises.

Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)

With decades of combined experience in the Medicare insurance industry, our team brings a depth of knowledge, professionalism, and personalized service that only comes from years of helping clients navigate their healthcare choices. We've built a loyal base of repeat customers by focusing on education, trust, and ongoing support—long after the initial enrollment. Whether you're new to Medicare or reviewing your options during open enrollment, we’re here to guide you with clarity, care, and expertise tailored to your unique needs.

Medicare Insurance

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program in the United States designed primarily for people aged 65 and older, though it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities or specific medical conditions such as end-stage renal disease. The program is divided into different parts: Part A helps cover hospital stays and inpatient care, Part B covers outpatient services like doctor visits and preventive care, Part C (Medicare Advantage) offers an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits through private insurance plans, and Part D provides prescription drug coverage. Medicare helps millions of Americans access the healthcare they need while offering options to tailor coverage to their individual circumstances.

Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)

Prescription Drug Plans, known as Medicare Part D, are standalone plans offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare to help cover the cost of prescription medications. These plans work alongside Original Medicare and some Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, and are also often included in Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans. Part D helps reduce out-of-pocket expenses for both brand-name and generic drugs and offers protection against high drug costs. Each plan has its own list of covered drugs, known as a formulary, and may have different premiums, copayments, and pharmacy networks, so it's important to compare options to find the plan that best fits your needs.

What’s Right for Me? (Decision support, educational only—not directive)

Choosing the right Medicare coverage really depends on your personal health needs, budget, and preferences. Some people prefer the flexibility of Original Medicare paired with a Medigap plan, which lets you see any doctor nationwide who accepts Medicare and can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Others are drawn to Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, which often include extra benefits like dental, vision, and prescription coverage, usually at a lower monthly premium—but with provider networks and possible copays. If you take regular prescriptions, adding a standalone Part D plan (or choosing an Advantage plan that includes drug coverage) is important. Think about how often you visit doctors, whether you travel frequently, if you have a preferred pharmacy or doctor, and how comfortable you are managing costs like copays or deductibles. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—just the best fit for your unique situation. The good news is that with the right information, you can make a confident, informed choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Most people become eligible at age 65 and can enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period, which begins three months before the month they turn 65 and ends three months after. If you're already receiving Social Security, you'll be enrolled automatically in Parts A and B. If not, you’ll need to sign up through Social Security. Missing this window can result in late enrollment penalties, so it’s important to plan ahead.

Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces your Original Medicare coverage and usually includes added benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drugs. It often comes with lower monthly premiums but may limit you to a provider network. Medigap, on the other hand, works alongside Original Medicare to cover out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and coinsurance, offering more flexibility in provider choice—especially for those who travel or want predictable costs.

If you're still working and have employer coverage, you may not need to enroll in all parts of Medicare right away. Many people delay Part B to avoid paying premiums unnecessarily—but timing is key. If your employer has 20 or more employees, you can likely delay without penalty. However, if your coverage is through a smaller employer, you may need to enroll in Part B when first eligible to avoid gaps or penalties.

While Part A is usually premium-free if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes, Part B has a monthly premium (which can vary based on income), along with deductibles and coinsurance. Medicare Advantage plans may have low or zero premiums but can include copays and network restrictions. Medigap plans have their own monthly premiums but can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Part D also has its own premium and cost-sharing. It’s all about balancing premiums with your expected healthcare use.

Yes, Medicare offers specific enrollment periods each year that allow you to make changes. The Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7) lets you switch between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare, change Medicare Advantage plans, or update your Part D drug plan. There’s also the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31) for switching Advantage plans or going back to Original Medicare. In certain cases—like moving, losing coverage, or qualifying for Medicaid—you may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. These options ensure your coverage can adapt as your health, lifestyle, or financial needs evolve.