Texas Medsups

Understanding Medicare Supplements and Your Options in Texas

Navigating Medicare can feel overwhelming, but understanding Texas Medigap plans simplifies things!

What are Medigap plans?

These standardized insurance policies, also known as Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap), help fill the gaps in your Original Medicare coverage. They cover some of the out-of-pocket costs, like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles, that Medicare doesn’t.

Important things to know about Texas Medigap plans:

• Standardized: Each plan with the same letter (A-N) offers the same basic benefits, regardless of the insurance company.
• Open enrollment: You have a 6-month window when you turn 65 and enroll in Part B to buy any Medigap plan offered by a company. After that, companies can choose whom they cover and at what cost.
• Cost differences: The main difference between Medigap plans with the same letter is the price. Compare plans from different companies to find the best deal.
• Benefits: Each plan offers varying levels of coverage, from basic (Plan A) to more comprehensive (Plan N). Choose a plan that fits your needs and budget.

Here’s what some Texas Medigap plans can cover:

• Part A coinsurance and deductible: Some plans cover the coinsurance and even the deductible for hospital stays.
• Part B copayments and deductible: Some plans cover some or all of the out-of-pocket costs for doctor visits, preventive care, and other Part B services.
• Blood transfusions (first 3 pints): Most plans cover the cost of the first 3 pints of blood you receive in a year.
• Extra hospital days: Some plans cover up to 365 additional days of hospital care after Medicare benefits run out.
• Skilled nursing facility care: Some plans cover coinsurance or copays for skilled nursing facility stays.
• Part A hospice/respite care: Some plans cover coinsurance or copays for hospice and respite care.

Remember:

• Medigap plans supplement Original Medicare; they don’t replace it.
• You pay a monthly premium for your Medigap plan.
• You may still have some out-of-pocket costs, depending on your plan.

Other options for prescription drug coverage:

• Texas Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D): Stand-alone plans that cover prescription drugs.
• Texas Medicare Advantage Plans with prescription drug coverage (MA-PD): These “all-in-one” plans combine Parts A, B, and D, often with additional benefits.

Need help finding the best plan for you?

Contact Ashford Insurance! Their friendly sales agents can explain your options and help you choose the most affordable Medicare plan for your needs.

Additional tips:

• Review employer retiree health insurance: It may offer benefits that work well with Medicare.
• Don’t forget your Part A and B premiums: You’ll still need to pay these even with a Medigap plan or MA-PD.
• Compare and shop around: Find the plan that offers the right coverage at the best price for you.

By understanding your options and making informed decisions, you can navigate the world of Medicare with confidence and choose the coverage that best meets your needs and budget.

Remember, Ashford Insurance is here to help!