Enrolling in Medigap is important in a number of ways but the primary benefit is that it can help protect you from financial disaster in cases of prolonged illness or serious accidents. For those participants that are not familiar with Medigap below is a shot explanation of exactly what it is and what it does for policyholders.
A Medigap policy is a health insurance policy that is sponsored by the federal government and sold through private companies to supplement the benefits and services obtained through Medicare. Although private companies sell Medigap it is regulated closely by federal, state, and local governments to ensure that participants have the opportunity to be covered if desired.
The name Medigap comes about because of the function that is provides between Medicare and additional services. The gap that is left between the cost of medical bills and what Medicare actually pays towards these expenses is often covered with the purchase of additional insurance in the form of a Medigap plan.
There are a number of parts to Medicare and ten different plans within Medigap that you can enroll in. Regardless of which one Medicare recipients in Michigan choose from it is crucial to note that it is not going to cover all of your hospital, pharmaceutical, and doctor’s bills in a medical emergency. However, it will prevent the financial disaster that would have occurred without participation in the Medicare and Medigap programs.
As we all know medical costs have been skyrocketing for a number of years now and don’t seem to be letting up anytime soon. A major medical problem which includes a long stay in the hospital could cost you easily $100,000 or more. Even with Medicare covering 80% of that, you are still responsible for $20,000 or more in leftover medical bills. For the average American this could wipe out your entire savings at the time when you most need it.
One of the best things about Michigan Medigap Plans is that you can enroll in one of your own choosing at the age of 65 without any medical questions asked. This opportunity is only available for three months before you turn 65 to three months after you have turned 65. This means it is very important to participate in a Medigap plan during the period. If you wait until this window of opportunity is closed you could end up paying a lot more for the same policy or worse yet you could end up without coverage.
Going with a low priced Medigap Plan may sound appealing but remember that you may not be able to change plans after your health deteriorates. During your open enrollment period the insurer cannot refuse your application for Medigap insurance or charge you a higher than standard rate or limit coverage for pre-existing health problems.
Your medical history is completely irrelevant during open enrollment which typically begins on the first day of the month in which you are at least 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B. This golden opportunity only lasts for six months. Outside of open enrollment you may not be able to find an insurer that will allow you to enroll in a different plan with a pre-existing condition. That’s why you may save in the long run by enrolling in the Medigap Plans in Michigan with the best protection when you have the chance.
Learn more about Medigap plans & rates in Michigan at http://emedigap-plans.com/michigan-medicare-supplement-plans. Our Michigan Medigap Insurance brokers will help you compare Medigap Insurance rates and plans in Michigan today. To talk to an expert in Michigan Medigap coverage call toll free 888-452-7949 today!