Written by Melinda Sineriz
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.
- Utah 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 Utah?
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 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, though premiums may differ.
Learn how these plans work and how they benefit residents of Utah.
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 starts the month you’re both age 65 (or older) and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, insurance companies must offer you any plan they sell at standard rates, regardless of your health.
This is the best time to enroll because it offers the widest choice of plans and the most favorable pricing.
Guaranteed issue rights apply during certain events, such as losing other health coverage or moving out of your Medicare Advantage plan’s service area. If you qualify, insurers must offer you coverage without charging more or delaying coverage due to preexisting conditions.
What Are the Most Popular Medicare Supplement Plans?
Nationwide, the most common Medigap plans—and also among Utah residents—include:
- Plan F: Offers the most comprehensive coverage but is only available to those who became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
- Plan G: Similar to Plan F but does not cover the Medicare Part B deductible.
- Plan N: Offers robust coverage but requires some copayments and does not cover Part B excess charges.
How Do You Choose a Medicare Supplement Plan?
When comparing Medigap plans in Utah:
- Choose a plan letter (e.g., G or N) that fits your healthcare needs and budget.
- Compare plan premiums across multiple insurers offering the same plan letter. Though benefits are standardized, premiums can differ depending on:
- Attained age rating – Premiums increase with age.
- Issue age rating – Premiums are based on your age when you purchase the plan and don’t increase as you age.
- Community rating – Everyone pays the same premium regardless of age.
Always compare “apples to apples” — for example, Plan G with one insurer versus Plan G with another.
You can evaluate plans online or speak with a licensed insurance agent for personalized guidance.
How Much Do Medigap Policies Cost?
Medigap premiums in Utah vary based on several factors:
- Your age and gender
- Tobacco use
- Plan type selected
- The pricing model used by the insurer
Compare options HERE & start your health plan journey.
What If You Want to Change Your Medicare Supplement Plan?
You can apply to change Medigap plans at any time. However, unless you have guaranteed issue rights, insurers may use medical underwriting to determine your eligibility and pricing.
If you’re still within your Medigap Open Enrollment Period or qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, switching plans is generally easier and more flexible.
What Are Alternatives to Medicare Supplement Plans?
Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans combine Part A and Part B, and most include prescription drug coverage (Part D).
They often offer additional benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs. Instead of buying a Medigap policy and a Part D plan separately, you may consider enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan.
Learn more about Utah Medicare Advantage plans.
Medicare Part D?
Medicare Part D plans provide standalone prescription drug coverage.
- Who needs it: Anyone with Original Medicare who wants prescription coverage.
- What it covers: Costs related to prescription medications; details vary by plan.
- How it’s offered: Through private insurance companies approved by Medicare.
- Not needed if: You’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage (MAPD).
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 need drug coverage, you must enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan.
Medicare Resources in Utah
Utah residents can get personalized Medicare help through these state programs:
- Utah State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): Offers free one-on-one Medicare counseling.
- Utah Insurance Department: Regulates insurance providers and offers consumer protection resources.
- Utah Medicaid Program: Provides assistance for low-income individuals and may help with Medicare-related expenses.
Next Steps
If a Medicare Supplement plan in Utah aligns with your healthcare and financial needs, take the next step by exploring available options. You can compare plans online or speak with a licensed insurance agent for expert advice and assistance.
Thank you for your feedback!
Medicare.gov. Medicare. “When Can I Buy Medigap?” medicare.gov. (accessed December 9, 2020).
Medicare.gov. “Guaranteed Issue Rights.” medicare.gov. (accessed December 9, 2020).
Medicare.gov. “Special Circumstances (Special Enrollment Periods).” medicare.gov. (accessed December 9, 2020).
Medicare.gov. “Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plans in Tennessee.” medicare.gov. (accessed December 9, 2020).
Medicare.gov. “Switching Medigap Policies.” medicare.gov (accessed December 9, 2020).
Medicare.gov. “Medicare Advantage Plans.” medicare.gov (accessed December 9, 2020).
