What Is Medicare Supplement (Medigap)?

Medigap Explained Simply

Medicare Supplement Insurance, also called Medigap, is private insurance that helps pay for some of the healthcare costs that Original Medicare doesn't cover, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.

Why Do You Need Medigap?

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers many healthcare services, but it doesn't pay for everything. You're responsible for:

• Hospital deductibles ($1,736 per benefit period in 2026)
• Doctor visit coinsurance (typically 20% of costs)
• Part B annual deductible ($283 in 2026)
• Other copayments and coinsurance

Without Medigap, these costs can add up quickly, especially if you need frequent medical care or have a serious health condition.

How Medigap Works

1. You must have Original Medicare Parts A and B to buy Medigap
2. You pay a monthly premium to a private insurance company for your Medigap policy
3. When you receive healthcare services, Medicare pays its share first
4. Then your Medigap policy pays its share of the remaining costs
5. You pay whatever costs remain, if any

Key Facts About Medigap

• Standardized plans: All Plan G policies offer the same benefits, regardless of which insurance company sells them
• Freedom of choice: See any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare, anywhere in the U.S.
• No networks: Unlike Medicare Advantage, there are no network restrictions
• Guaranteed renewable: Your policy can't be canceled as long as you pay premiums
• Works with Medicare: Medigap supplements Original Medicare, not Medicare Advantage

What Medigap Doesn't Cover

Medigap policies don't cover:

• Prescription drugs (you need a separate Part D plan)
• Long-term care
• Vision care
• Dental care
• Hearing aids