For beneficiaries on Original Medicare (Parts A and B), a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan may provide the extra coverage they need. Also known as “Medigap” plans, these policies which are sold by private insurance companies fill the “gaps” not covered by Original Medicare, such as deductibles, coinsurance and copayments for services.
To be eligible to purchase a Medigap, an individual must be enrolled into Part B. This kickstarts the Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which lasts for 6 months. During this period, insurance companies can’t deny enrollment and will provide coverage at the best price. Outside this period, one can still buy a Medigap policy, but restrictions may apply. Beneficiaries with Medicare Advantage plans are ineligible to purchase a Medigap.
Contact Hawaii SHIP to learn more about Medicare Supplement Insurance. Request a free Medigap plan comparison and a list of authorized insurance companies in Hawai‘i. Local, certified SHIP specialists provide unbiased information in one-on-one sessions, compare Medicare Advantage and Part D plans, and help low-income clients apply for Medicaid and Extra Help assistance.
HAWAII SHIP
Free, local, one-on-one Medicare counseling is provided by the Hawai‘i State Health Insurance Assistance Program.
250 South Hotel St., Ste. 406, Honolulu, HI 96813
Oahu: 808-586-7299 | Toll free: 888-875-9229
hawaiiship.org
