Medicare Supplement plans are through private insurance companies and are used with Original Medicare - they help cover costs associated with Medicare and fill in the "gaps" of what Original Medicare does not cover. Some examples of things a Medigap plan may cover are:

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• Part A coinsurance 

• Part A hospital costs after the Medicare limit

• Part B coinsurance

• Part A deductible

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Some Medigap plans provide coverage for medical services received while traveling outside the U.S. Note that a Supplement plan does not include drug coverage, which can be purchased separately through a standalone PDP. 

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Generally, a good time for someone to purchase one of these plans  is during their "Medigap Open Enrollment Period"  -  the 6-month period beginning the first month they have Medicare Part B and are 65 or older. A person may or may not be able to purchase a Medigap plan after this period ends.

What is a Medicare Advantage Plan?

Medicare Advantage Plans are an option for those having Medicare Parts A & B, and can be thought of as an alternative to Original Medicare. ​​

 

Medicare Advantage plans may allow you to see providers outside of the Medicare network, although it may cost more. These plans may offer limited out of pocket costs, which can help with budgeting medical expenses. 

 

What is a Special Needs Plan?

Some Medicare Advantage plans fall under the Special Needs Category and have additional eligibility requirements. Two examples of SNPs are:

• Dual Special Needs Plan (DSNP) Those on Medicare & Medicaid may be eligible.

• Chronic Special Needs Plan (CSNP) Those having certain chronic conditions may be eligible for this type of plan. 

 

Original Medicare (Parts A & B) doesn't cover most dental & vision services. Supplemental dental and/or vision plans can be purchased alongside other insurance.

 

Depending on the plan, covered dental services may include X-rays & cleanings, fillings or dentures. 

 

For vision, examples of covered services include care at an optometrist or ophthalmologist for eye exams, frames & contacts.