Do Healthy Seniors Really Need Medicare Supplement Plans?



Technically, the answer is no -- you do not have to choose from one of the Medicare Supplement plan options available to you at all. However, choosing to forgo any kind of supplemental plan can be a real risk. Just because you are currently healthy and take no medications does not mean that this will be the case in the future. Accidents and sudden illnesses can throw you for a loop, both physically and financially.

Supplement plans are meant to fill the gaps that regular Medicare policies leave, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. They can also help you pay for services that Medicare doesn't cover at all, like non-U.S. medical care or certain emergency services. Without Medicare Supplement plans, many seniors might be stuck with astronomical out-of-pocket costs.

In some cases, having a supplemental plan may not be necessary or even allowed under Medicare rules (for example, those who are enrolled in Medicare Advantage -- also known as Medicare Part C -- are not eligible for Medigap plans). But if you are able to enroll in a supplemental plan, experts recommend that you do so. Waiting to enroll in a supplemental plan until you really need it will often result in higher costs; you may even have difficulty getting one at all.

While a few states allow you to buy supplemental coverage at any time, federal law says that you can purchase a supplemental plan only during your six-month open enrollment period beginning the month you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare. You can also purchase a Medigap plan within 63 days of losing other types of health coverage. Outside of these time restrictions, you'll have to purchase your policy from an insurer willing to sell you a plan, often for higher premiums than you'd otherwise pay.

Ultimately, even if you don't need to rely on your supplemental plan right away, you'll have valuable peace of mind for the future. After all, it's better to be safe than sorry. To find out more about obtaining Medicare Supplement plans in Virginia, contact S2S Silver Services today. We'll be happy to help you find a supplemental policy that works for your needs and budget.