California Property & Casualty Broker-AgentHealth InsuranceMedium
A 68-year-old client, enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B, is concerned about the out-of-pocket costs associated with doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs. They are considering additional coverage options. Which Medicare plan specifically helps cover the 'gaps' in Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and typically does NOT include prescription drug coverage?
- AMedicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)
- BMedicare Part D Plan
- CMedicare Advantage Plan (Part C)
- DMedicaid
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)
Medicare Supplement Insurance, also known as Medigap, is designed to pay for the 'gaps' in Original Medicare, such as deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. It generally does not include prescription drug coverage, which is covered by Part D.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Medicare Part D is *only* for prescription drug coverage and does not cover the gaps in Part A and B medical services.
- C. Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are an alternative to Original Medicare and often *do* include prescription drug coverage and may have different cost-sharing.
- D. Medicaid is a state and federal program providing health coverage for low-income individuals, separate from Medicare 'gap' coverage for those already on Medicare.
Medigap (Medicare Supplement)
Private health insurance plans designed to supplement Original Medicare by covering some of the costs that Original Medicare doesn't, such as deductibles and coinsurance.
- Works with Original Medicare (Parts A & B).
- Does not include prescription drug coverage (Part D is separate).
- Standardized plans (A-N) across states, though not all plans are sold everywhere.
Memory trick: Medigap 'fills the gaps' of Original Medicare, but leaves Part D to drugs.