Medigap Plan D
Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan D is one of ten Medigap plans that aim to cover certain expenses that are not covered by Medicare Part A and Part B. As with other Medigap plans, private health insurance companies sell Plan D. It is essential to note that Medigap Plan D is not the same as Medicare Part D, which is a prescription drug coverage benefit available through Medicare Prescription Drug Plans and Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug plans. Plan D is a type of supplementary insurance that bridges coverage gaps in Original Medicare.
Medigap Plan D Coverage Benefits
One significant advantage of Medigap Plan D is that it covers the Medicare Part A deductible, providing significant cost savings to its members. Additionally, Plan D offers extra coverage for hospital stays and the copays and coinsurance costs associated with Part A. However, it is crucial to note that the Part B deductible is not included in the Plan D benefits.
Medigap Plan D Covers:
- Part A coinsurance and up to an additional 365 days of hospital costs after Medicare benefits are exhausted
- Part B coinsurance/copayment
- Blood (3 pints)
- Part A hospice coinsurance/copayment
- Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance
- Part A deductible
- 80% of foreign travel exchange
- No out-of-pocket limit
What Medigap Plan D Doesn't Cover?
While Medigap Plan D provides decent coverage, it is not the most all-inclusive option available. Plan D, for instance, does not cover Medicare Part B excess charges. This occurs when a healthcare provider charges more than the Medicare-approved amount, which they are authorized to do. Other things plan D doesn’t cover for new members:
- Part B deductible
- Prescription drugs
- Long-term care (like non-skilled care you get in a nursing home)
- Dental care
- Vision care
- Private-duty nursing
Individuals Who Benefit from Plan D
Medigap Plan D can be an excellent choice for those who want coverage beyond Original Medicare and seek protection from unforeseen hospital expenses. It is also ideal for those who frequently travel outside the United States and desire a plan with consistent, year-over-year rate increases. If you are interested in Medicare Supplement Plan D, you can check your eligibility.
Medigap Plan D Premiums
The monthly premiums for Medigap Plan D depend on several factors, such as the state where the individual is seeking coverage, the insurance carrier they choose, and individual factors like age, gender, and tobacco use. On average, the monthly cost of Plan D ranges from $120 to $200. Generally, premiums for Plan D are higher in states with a higher cost of living.
When to Enroll in Medigap Plan D?
It is advisable to enroll in Plan D during your Open Enrollment Period, which occurs only once and begins once you turn 65 years old and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. This period lasts for six months. If you continue to work after turning 65 and are covered by a group employer plan that is considered to be creditable coverage, your six-month period begins after you have ended active employment or no longer have that insurance.
How to Compare Medigap Plan D Rates
Obtaining accurate quotes for Medicare Supplement plans can be overwhelming, which is why it is recommended to seek help from a licensed Medicare agent. They can compare premiums across different carriers and provide guidance on the best plan for you. Our agency offers this service at no additional cost to you, and we also provide unlimited support if you choose to enroll in a plan through us. To obtain quotes, we will need to gather information about your health history and other factors that can affect your premium. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance with your Medicare Supplement needs.
