Who it's for
- People with Original Medicare (Parts A and B) who want fewer out-of-pocket surprises
- Anyone who wants to see any doctor or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare
- People who travel or split time between Louisiana and another state
- Those who prefer a steady monthly premium over copays at every visit
What it covers
- Some or all of Medicare's deductibles, copays and coinsurance, depending on the plan letter
- The 20% Part B coinsurance on most plans
- Extra hospital days after Medicare's hospital coverage runs out
- Emergency care during foreign travel on many plans (up to plan limits)
How Medicare Supplement plans work
Original Medicare pays a large share of your hospital and medical bills, but not all of it — and it has no yearly limit on what you pay. Medigap plans are sold by private insurance companies and pay part or all of what's left. Because the plan works alongside Original Medicare, there are no networks: if a doctor or hospital accepts Medicare, your Medigap plan pays its share too.
Medigap plans are standardized and identified by letters. A Plan G from one company has the same core benefits as a Plan G from another — the differences are the price, how the company sets and raises its rates, and customer service. That's why comparing companies matters.
The plans people ask about most
- Plan G — covers nearly all of Medicare's gaps except the yearly Part B deductible. It's the most comprehensive plan available to people who became eligible for Medicare in 2020 or later.
- Plan N — lower premiums in exchange for small copays for some office and emergency room visits, plus possible Part B excess charges.
- High-deductible Plan G — the same benefits as Plan G after you meet a yearly deductible, usually with a much lower premium.
Plans C and F are no longer sold to people who became eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020. If you already have one, you can usually keep it.
Don't forget prescription coverage
Medigap plans sold today do not include prescription drug coverage. Most people pair their Medicare Supplement with a stand-alone Part D prescription drug plan. If you go without creditable drug coverage when you are first eligible, you may owe a late enrollment penalty later — so we help you set up both at the same time.
Timing matters: your Medigap Open Enrollment Period
Your best time to buy a Medicare Supplement is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period — the six months that start the first month you have Medicare Part B and are 65 or older. During that window, companies must sell you any plan they offer in your area without turning you down or charging more because of your health.
After that window, companies may ask health questions and can decline your application or charge more, unless you have a guaranteed issue right (for example, when you lose certain other coverage). If you're thinking about moving from Medicare Advantage to a Medigap plan, talk with us first so you don't give up coverage you need.
Medigap is not Medicare Advantage
It's illegal for anyone to sell you a Medicare Supplement policy while you're in a Medicare Advantage plan, unless you're switching back to Original Medicare. If someone tries, call us before you sign anything.
Comparing Medicare Supplement prices in Louisiana
Medigap premiums can vary widely between companies for the exact same plan letter. We compare the companies we represent, explain how each prices its plans as you age, and walk you through the application. There's no fee for our help.
Carriers we work with
We are appointed with the following companies for Medicare Supplement in Louisiana. Plan availability varies by parish.
- AARP Medicare Supplementinsured by UnitedHealthcare
- Humana
Company names are shown for identification only. We do not offer every plan available in your area.
Common questions about Medicare Supplement
Is Plan G the same with every company?
Yes — the benefits of a lettered plan are standardized. What differs is the premium, how rates change over time, and the company's service. We help you compare.
Can I be turned down for a Medicare Supplement?
During your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, or when you have a guaranteed issue right, you can't be turned down because of your health. Outside those times, companies may use medical underwriting.
Does a Medicare Supplement include dental and vision?
No. Medigap plans follow Original Medicare's rules and don't cover routine dental, vision or hearing care. You can add a separate dental and vision plan.
Can I use my Medigap plan outside Louisiana?
Yes. You can see any provider in the U.S. that accepts Medicare, which makes Medigap a good fit for people who travel.
Do I need a separate drug plan?
Yes, if you want prescription coverage — and most people do. Medigap plans sold today don't include drug coverage, so we'll help you choose a Part D plan too.
