Massachusetts Medicare Supplemental Insurance (Medigap)

Senior residents of Massachusetts need to know all they can about their Medicare options so that they have coverage when they need it most. Health insurance for seniors is a little more complicated than it is for younger people. Although many of the same options such as HMO, PPO, and POS apply there are other things to concern the individual approaching 65.

When you reach retirement age the government will automatically enroll you in Medicare Part A. There is nothing you have to do; it is all done for you. However, Medicare Part A is a very basic insurance. Even though it has no monthly premium it does have deductibles and co-pays that can add up to a substantial amount of money. At 65 seniors can opt-in to Medicare part B. This coverage extends the services of Part A and also includes such necessities as medical transportation, home care and equipment like wheelchairs, but it also has a monthly premium. A major benefit is that since it is administered by the Federal government your monthly fees for this coverage can be deducted immediately from your social security.

Even with those two plans many seniors find themselves short on medical insurance coverage. Part A and Part B do not cover prescription medicines and there are still high deductibles and fees. Arranging for Medicare supplemental insurance helps many seniors cover their costs. Medicare Part C, sometimes known as Medicare Advantage or Medigap, helps bridge the gaps in payments for services, deductibles and other expenses and is sometimes offered with Medicare Part D that is the only Medicare supplement that covers prescription medicines.