Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Explained
How Medigap works and whether it’s right for your Medicare coverage
Written by Walter Johnson, Licensed Insurance Agent
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a solicitation for insurance
OFFICIAL 2026 EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE BY WALTER JOHNSON, LICENSED INSURANCE AGENT (CA #0J15814).
Written by Walter Johnson, Licensed Insurance Agent
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a solicitation for insurance
What is Medicare Supplement (Medigap)? Learn how Medigap works, what it covers, and whether it’s the right option to reduce out-of-pocket costs.
What Is Medicare Supplement (Medigap)?
Medicare Supplement insurance, also known as Medigap, is designed to help cover the out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not pay.
This can include:
Deductibles
Copayments
Coinsurance
Medigap policies are sold by private insurance companies and work alongside Original Medicare.
How Medigap Works
With Medigap:
Medicare pays its share of approved costs first
Your Medigap plan helps cover the remaining expenses
This can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs for covered services.
👉 Learn more: What Does Medicare NOT Cover?
What Medigap Covers
Depending on the plan you choose, Medigap may cover:
Part A hospital coinsurance
Part B coinsurance (typically 20%)
Blood transfusions
Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
Some emergency care outside the U.S.
Each plan type offers a standardized set of benefits.
What Medigap Does NOT Cover
Medigap does not typically cover:
Prescription drugs (requires Part D)
Dental, vision, or hearing care
Long-term care
👉 Learn more: What Does Medicare Cover for Seniors?
How Medigap Is Different from Medicare Advantage
Medigap and Medicare Advantage are two different ways to manage your Medicare coverage.
Medigap works with Original Medicare to reduce out-of-pocket costs
Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with a bundled plan
⚠️ You cannot have both at the same time.
👉 Learn more about Medicare Advantage plans
When You Can Enroll in Medigap
The best time to enroll is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period:
Starts when you are 65 and enrolled in Part B
Lasts for 6 months
During this time:
You cannot be denied coverage
You may get better pricing
👉 Learn more: When to Enroll in Medicare
How Much Does Medigap Cost?
Costs vary depending on:
Your location
Your age
The plan you choose
The insurance company
In general, Medigap plans have:
Monthly premiums
Lower out-of-pocket costs when you receive care
👉 Learn more: How Much Does Medicare Cost Per Month
Is Medigap Worth It?
Medigap may be a good option if you:
Want predictable healthcare costs
Prefer flexibility in choosing providers
Expect frequent medical care
It may be less useful if you prefer all-in-one plans with additional benefits.
Why This Matters
Medigap can help protect you from high out-of-pocket costs and provide more predictable healthcare expenses.
Understanding how it works helps you:
Choose the right coverage option
Avoid unexpected costs
Plan your healthcare budget
Next Step
Now that you understand Medigap, the next step is comparing it to other Medicare options.
👉 Continue to: Medicare vs Medicare Advantage
Related Guides
What Does Medicare NOT Cover?
What Does Medicare Cover for Seniors?
How Much Does Medicare Cost Per Month
When to Enroll in Medicare