Medicare Supplemental Plans, also known as Medigap Supplement Plans, are designed to help cover out-of-pocket costs that are not covered by Original Medicare (Parts A and B). Here’s a detailed look at what Medigap plans offer to Alaskans and how they work:

What is Medigap?

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Medigap is a type of health insurance sold by private companies that can help pay for costs such as:

• Deductibles
• Copayments
• Coinsurance
• Additional costs not covered by Original Medicare

Standardized Plans 

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Medigap plans in Alaska are standardized by the federal government, which means that each plan with the same letter offers the same basic benefits, regardless of which insurance company sells it. However, prices and customer service can vary.

Here’s a brief overview of each standardized Medigap plan:

• Plan A: Provides basic coverage including Part A coinsurance and hospital costs, Part B coinsurance, and the first three pints of blood.
• Plan B: Includes all benefits of Plan A, plus coverage for the Part A deductible.
• Plan C: Covers everything in Plan B plus the Part B deductible and Part B excess charges. Note that Plan C is no longer available to new enrollees as of January 1, 2020.
• Plan D: Covers everything in Plan B but does not cover the Part B deductible or excess charges.
• Plan F: Offers comprehensive coverage including everything in Plan C. Like Plan C, Plan F is not available to new enrollees as of January 1, 2020.
• Plan G: Provides the same benefits as Plan F but does not cover the Part B deductible. This plan is available to new enrollees.
• Plan K: Offers partial coverage and has a maximum out-of-pocket limit. It covers 50% of the Part A deductible and 50% of the Part B coinsurance.
• Plan L: Similar to Plan K but with a higher coverage level. It covers 75% of the Part A deductible and 75% of the Part B coinsurance.
• Plan M: Covers 50% of the Part A deductible and offers other benefits.
• Plan N: Provides coverage similar to Plan M but with copayments for office visits and emergency room visits.

*Plans F & G Offer a high deductible versions.

Enrollment 

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• Eligibility: You must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B to apply for a Medigap plan.
• Open Enrollment Period: The best time to enroll in a Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. This six-month period starts the first day of the month you’re 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. During this time, you can buy any Medigap plan regardless of health conditions, and you can’t be charged more due to pre-existing conditions.
• After Open Enrollment: Outside of this period, you may be subject to medical underwriting, meaning insurers can use your health status to determine your premium or deny coverage.

Cost 

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• Premiums: You pay a monthly premium for a Medigap plan in addition to your Medicare Part B premium. Premiums vary by plan, insurance company, location, and your age.
• Cost Variations: Even though the benefits are standardized, the cost can vary significantly between insurers, so it’s wise to shop around and compare plans.

Additional Considerations 

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• Prescription Drug Coverage: Medigap plans do not include prescription drug coverage. For this, you’ll need to enroll in a Medicare Part D plan.
• Medicare Advantage Plans: Medigap plans are different from Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans. Medicare Advantage plans often offer additional benefits and have different coverage rules, whereas Medigap plans are designed to work alongside Original Medicare.

Choosing the right Medigap plan involves considering your health care needs, budget, and how much you value different coverage options. Comparing plans and consulting with a Medicare advisor can help you make an informed decision.