Simplifying Medicare and its Many Supplement Choices

If you’re a brand-new Medicare recipient, you’ve likely received materials about signing up for the various supplements. These supplements can be confusing if you’re unfamiliar with them, which could result in you missing out on the benefits you’re entitled to. Here is a brief overview of the full list of Medicare supplements to ensure you’re making the most of what’s available to you. 

What Medicare Covers

Original Medicare consists of Part A and Part B. Part A covers hospital inpatient treatment, skilled nursing center care, nursing care, and hospice care. Part B covers medically necessary care like ambulance services, necessary equipment, inpatient mental health treatment, and a minimal number of prescriptions. Medicare Parts A and B don’t cover routine physicals, most dental care, hearing aids, and more. This leaves Medicare recipients with out-of-pocket costs, especially regarding prescription medications. Purchasing a supplement can reduce these costs. 

Supplemental Coverage Plans

These supplements can be purchased to pick up the costs that Medicare Parts A and B don’t cover. Here are the various supplements and what they cover:

  • Medicare Advantage (Medicare Part C) – This supplement covers doctor’s visits, labs, and a host of other services
  • Medicare Part D (PDP) – This is supplemental insurance that covers only prescriptions
  • Medigap (Supplemental Insurance) – This is a Medicare supplement provided by private insurance companies. Ten Medigap plans are available: Medicare A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N.

Understanding Medicare and its various supplements can sometimes be confusing, especially in the beginning. If you want more information about PDP and other Medicare supplements and want to sign up, Luft Insurance Agency can assist you. We serve the Escanaba, MI area and have provided optimal service to our customers for 22 years. We are a full-service insurance agency so we can meet all your needs. Call us today so we can answer any questions and provide you with a quote.