Medicare supplement insurance policies are called Medigap policies.

Original Medicare pays for many, but not all, health care services and supplies. A Medicare supplement policy, sold by private companies, can help pay some of the health care costs that original Medicare doesn't cover, such as co-payments, co-insurance, and deductibles.

Some Medigap policies also offer coverage for services that original Medicare does not cover, like medical care when you travel outside the U.S.

Every Medigap policy must follow Federal and State laws designed to protect you, and it must be clearly identified as “Medicare Supplement Insurance.” Companies can sell you only a “standardized” policy, identified in most states by the letters A-N. All policies offer the same basic benefits, but some offer additional benefits, so you can choose which one meets your needs.

Note: Plans E, H, I, and J are no longer available for purchase, but if you already have one of those policies, you can keep it. Contact your insurance company for more information.

You have to pay the premiums for a Medigap Policy. Different insurance companies may charge different premiums for the same exact policy! That's why it's imperative that you seek the assistance of a reputable private insurance agency such as Senior Savings Network for all your Medicare supplement information and rates.