Written by Paige Cerulli
HealthCare Writer
We aim to help you make informed healthcare decisions. While this post may contain links to lead generation forms, this won’t influence our writing. We follow strict editorial standards to give you the most accurate and unbiased information.
What You Need to Know
- Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap, help pay for out-of-pocket costs not covered by Medicare Part A and Part B.
- Ohio insurance companies must accept your Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan application if you’re in your Medigap Open Enrollment Period or have guaranteed issue rights.
- The three most popular Medigap policies are typically Plans F, G, and N.
What Are Medicare Supplement Plans in Ohio?
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as younger people with qualifying disabilities or health conditions (e.g., end-stage renal disease).
Original Medicare, which includes Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance), covers many healthcare services. However, it still leaves you with out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
Medicare Supplement plans, also called Medigap, help pay for these expenses.
Medigap plans are standardized by letter (A through N). That means Plan A from one company offers the same benefits as Plan A from another, although monthly premiums may differ.
Learn how these plans work and how they benefit residents of Ohio.
Compare options HERE & start your health plan journey.
When Can You Enroll in a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Policy?
You can apply for a Medigap plan at any time. However, outside of your Medigap Open Enrollment Period—or without guaranteed issue rights—insurers may use your health history to deny coverage or charge higher premiums.
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period lasts for six months. It begins the month you are both age 65 (or older) and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this window, insurance companies must sell you any plan they offer at standard rates, regardless of your health status.
This is the best time to enroll because it gives you the most options and best pricing.
If you lose other health coverage or move outside of your Medicare Advantage plan’s service area, you may qualify for guaranteed issue rights. This allows you to enroll in a Medigap policy without medical underwriting.
What Are the Most Popular Medicare Supplement Plans?
Nationwide, the most commonly selected Medigap policies are:
- Plan F – Offers the most comprehensive coverage, but is only available to individuals eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
- Plan G – Covers almost everything Plan F does, except for the Medicare Part B deductible.
- Plan N – Covers most major costs but includes copayments for some doctor and ER visits. It does not cover Part B excess charges.
These three plans are widely used in Ohio due to their balance of cost and coverage.
How Do You Choose a Medicare Supplement Plan?
Choosing the right Medigap plan depends on your healthcare needs and budget. Here’s how to get started:
- Pick a plan letter (such as G or N) that aligns with the coverage you need.
- Compare plans from different insurance companies. The benefits are standardized, but premiums can vary depending on the insurer’s pricing model:
- Attained age: Premiums rise as you get older.
- Issue age: Premiums are based on the age when you first buy.
- Community rating: Premiums are the same regardless of age.
Always compare the same plan type across companies—Plan G vs. Plan G, for example.
What If You Want to Change Your Medicare Supplement Plan?
You can apply to change your Medigap policy at any time. However, unless you have guaranteed issue rights, your new application may be subject to medical underwriting, and you could be denied or charged more based on your health.
Compare options HERE & start your health plan journey.
What Are Alternatives to Medicare Supplement Plans?
Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, are an alternative to Original Medicare. Offered by private insurance companies, these plans bundle:
They may also include extras like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs.
Instead of buying a Medigap and a Part D plan separately, you might consider a Medicare Advantage plan for a more streamlined experience.
Learn more about Ohio Medicare Advantage plans.
Medicare Part D?
Medicare Part D plans provide standalone prescription drug coverage.
Who needs it: If you’re enrolled in Original Medicare and want drug coverage, you typically need a separate Part D plan.
What it covers: Prescription medications.
How it’s offered: Through Medicare-approved private insurers.
Not needed if: You already have a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage.
Shop for a Medicare plan with additional benefits!
Do Medigap Plans Cover Prescription Drugs?
No. Medigap plans do not include prescription drug coverage. If you want drug coverage, you’ll need a separate Medicare Part D plan.
Medicare Resources in Ohio
Residents of Ohio can access free, personalized support through:
- Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP): Offers one-on-one Medicare counseling.
- Ohio Department of Insurance: Regulates insurance providers and helps resolve complaints.
- Ohio Department of Medicaid: Coordinates benefits for low-income residents and supports those dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.
Next Steps
If a Medicare Supplement plan in Ohio sounds right for you, the next step is comparing plans available in your area. You can browse options online or speak with a licensed insurance agent for expert guidance tailored to your needs.
Thank you for your feedback!
Medicare.gov. “What’s Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)?” medicare.gov. (accessed November 8, 2020)
Medicare.gov. Medicare. “When Can I Buy Medigap?” medicare.gov. (accessed November 8, 2020).
Medicare.gov. “Guaranteed Issue Rights.” medicare.gov. (accessed November 8, 2020).
Medicare.gov. “Special Circumstances (Special Enrollment Periods).” medicare.gov. (accessed November 8, 2020).
Medicare.gov. “Benefits Offered by Each Medigap Plan.” medicare.gov. (accessed November 8, 2020).
Medicare.gov. “Medicare Advantage Plans.” medicare.gov (accessed November 8, 2020).
