The Medicare Supplement insurance, or Medigap plans, that are available to residents of Virginia fill in the gaps of coverage left by Original Medicare Parts A and B. These plans are offered by private insurers and are standardized nationally, so plan benefits within a letter category are the same no matter which insurance company you choose. The cost of the plan, however, may vary by provider and location. In 2022, Virginia introduced a tool that allows beneficiaries to compare Medigap costs by insurer and county, as well as to see how the prices for different plan types change over time.
There are 10 standardized Medigap plans in Virginia, designated by letters A through N. Each plan offers the same benefits, but the cost of the premium may differ from insurance company to insurance company. Plans that do not include Extra Charges typically have lower monthly premiums than those that do, but they also leave you with more out-of-pocket expenses to pay.
Choosing the right Medicare supplement plan for your unique needs is important. Consider your current medical conditions, your preferred doctors and hospitals, and whether or not you frequently travel. You may want to consider a plan with a large network of providers, or one that covers care nationally. Also, it is important to look at your overall budget when deciding on the best plan for you.
Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) are another option to consider, which provide all of your Medicare Parts A and B services, including prescription drug coverage, in one comprehensive package. The majority of counties in Virginia have at least one Medicare Advantage plan option from a private insurance company, and you can find a list of providers by entering your ZIP code on the Medicare Compare tool.
If you are considering purchasing a Medicare Supplement plan, it is best to do so during your open enrollment period, which begins the month you enroll in Medicare Part B and ends three months later. You can avoid penalty fees by enrolling during this period. If you miss your open enrollment period, you can still purchase a Medicare Supplement plan during the Medicare Part D Special Enrollment Period, which runs from three to six months after you start taking Medicare Part D medication.
The most popular Medicare Supplement plan in Virginia is Plan F, which will cover all of the out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare leaves behind. Its low premium and high coverage make it an excellent choice for people who use a lot of healthcare services. However, Plan G is growing in popularity because it offers similar benefits at a slightly lower price point. To find the right plan for you, contact eHealth to speak with a licensed insurance agent. You can get a free quote or schedule an appointment with a specialist to discuss your options.