Medicare Questions
Find out how to get Great Benefits with a Medicare Supplement Plan
1. Can I see any doctor or hospital in the Country?
Yes, the only requirement is that doctor or facility accepts Medicare. Medicare Supplement Plans do not require a network or referrals. *Exception is the “Select” Plans offered by some companies, they require a specific hospital. “Select” plans must be fully disclosed & understood at the time of enrollment. They are generally lower in cost.
2. If I’m traveling out of the country, will I be covered? Some plans will cover out of country benefits, see the Comparison of Plans
3. Do Medigap Plans have drug coverage? No, you will need to enroll into a standalone drug coverage plan.
4. Do I have to participate in Medicare Part A & Part B? Yes.
5. When can I enroll into a Medigap Plan?
You can enroll anytime of the year, as long as you have Part A & Part B. Since Medigap Plans are sold by private insurance companies, they do not follow the same enrollment time periods that Medicare Advantage Plans must follow (Oct. 15 – Dec 7 of each year).
6. I have health issues, can I enroll into a Medigap Plan?
When enrolling within 6 month of turning 65, you are allowed Guaranteed Issue. No health questions will be asked or considered. If you wait until after your 6 month enrollment window, health questions will be asked & you will need to pass that company’s underwriting standards. Each company has their own underwriting standards, some companies will issue with health issues, but charge a higher premium, while others may decline your application.
7. Why so many Plans? I don’t understand the difference.
Several years ago, companies were mandated to standardize all plans, with the same benefits in each plan. For instance, a Plan F with XYZ company has the same benefits as Plan F with ABC company. The only difference is the price of the Plan & the stability of the Company offering it.
