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New government laws have lead to many changes for Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) policies. These changes provide choices in health care coverage that will fill in the gaps for services that Original Medicare doesn’t cover.

When are changes happening to Medigap Policies?

The changes were effective June 1, 2010.

What are the changes to Medigap Policies?

Basic Benefits

• The Hospice Part A coinsurance will be covered by all plans.
• Plan K will cover 50% of the basic benefits costs.
• Plan L will cover 75% of the basic benefits costs.

Part B Coinsurance 
 

• Plans K, L, and N will require you to pay a portion of Part B coinsurance and copayments. These plans may have lower premiums.
• All other Medigap plans pay the Part B Coinsurance at 100%.

  Changes to Plans
 

• • Plans D and G bought on or after June 1, 2010 have different benefits than the earlier plans.

  Plans Not Available
 

• • Plans E, H, I and J will not be sold after May 31, 2010. If you bought one of these plans before June 1, 2010, you will be able to keep your plan.

Do I need to buy one of the new Medigap policies?

No, if you are satisfied with your current plan you may keep it as long as the premium is paid. You should only  replace your Medigap policy if the premiums are too high or the benefits no longer meet your needs.

What happens to the Medigap plan in which I am currently enrolled?

Nothing will happen to these plans. Your benefit package will remain exactly the same, even if it includes one of the new benefits or you have a Medigap plan that was dropped. Medigap policies are guaranteed renewable as long as you continue to pay the premium.

Can I switch to a different Medigap Policy?

In most cases, you won’t have a right to switch Medigap policies, unless you are within your 6-month open enrollment period or are eligible under a specific circumstance. However, if your state has more generous requirements, or the insurance company is willing to sell you a Medigap policy, you may be able to switch policies. Check with your Medigap insurance company.