Medicare Supplement Options in Florida
In Florida, Medicare beneficiaries can enhance their Original Medicare (Parts A and B) coverage by enrolling in Medicare Supplement Insurance plans, commonly known as Medigap. These plans help cover out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
Standardized Medigap Plans in Florida
Florida offers ten standardized Medigap plans, labeled A through N. Below is an overview of the available options:
| Plan | Coverage Highlights |
|---|---|
| A | Basic benefits, including Part A hospital coinsurance, hospital costs up to an additional 365 days, Part B coinsurance, and the first three pints of blood. |
| B | Includes all Plan A benefits plus coverage for the Part A deductible. |
| C | Covers all Plan B benefits, Part B deductible, skilled nursing facility care coinsurance, and foreign travel emergency. Available only to those eligible before January 1, 2020. |
| F | Most comprehensive coverage, including all Plan C benefits and coverage for Part B excess charges. Available only to those eligible before January 1, 2020. |
| G | Similar to Plan F but does not cover the Part B deductible. |
| N | Includes Part B coinsurance except for small copayments for office and emergency room visits. Foreign travel emergency coverage included. |
Popular Medigap Plans in Florida
The most popular Medigap plans among Florida beneficiaries include:
- Plan F: Comprehensive coverage, including all deductibles and excess charges. Available only to individuals eligible before 2020.
- Plan G: Similar to Plan F but excludes the Part B deductible.
- Plan N: Lower premiums with cost-sharing features such as copayments for office and ER visits.
Eligibility and Enrollment
To enroll in a Medigap plan in Florida, you must be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B. The best time to enroll is during your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which begins when you turn 65 and are enrolled in Part B.
Additional Considerations
- Prescription Drug Coverage: Medigap plans do not include prescription drug coverage. A separate Part D plan is required.
- Medicare SELECT: These policies require you to use a network of hospitals and doctors but offer lower premiums.
- Under-65 Beneficiaries: Florida requires insurers to offer at least one Medigap plan to individuals under 65, but premiums may be higher.
Choosing the Right Plan
When selecting a Medigap plan, consider the following:
- Healthcare Needs: Evaluate your medical requirements.
- Budget: Compare premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
- Provider Access: Ensure your healthcare providers accept the plan.