Turning 65 brings important healthcare decisions, and if you’re researching Medigap plans in Kansas, you’re in the right place. While Original Medicare covers many health expenses, it doesn’t cover everything, leaving gaps in coverage. Medigap plans help fill these gaps, covering costs like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
With over 12 years of experience guiding seniors through Medicare, I’m here to help you understand how Medigap plans in Kansas can provide peace of mind by reducing out-of-pocket expenses. Let’s explore what these plans offer and how they can support your healthcare needs in the Sunflower State.
Table of Contents:
Understanding Medigap Plans in Kansas
Here in Kansas, Medigap works with your existing Original Medicare coverage, Parts A and B. Think of it as an extra layer of protection that kicks in when Original Medicare falls short.
Because there are many Medigap plans in Kansas, each offering slightly different benefits, comparing them becomes crucial. Let me simplify it for you.
Breaking Down the Different Medigap Plans in Kansas
Although standardized, medigap plans in Kansas are identified by letters (A, B, D, G, K, L, M, N). However, remember, if you became eligible for Medicare after January 1, 2020, Plans C and F are unavailable. This applies nationwide, including Kansas.
To understand the coverage of Medigap Plans A to N, see the chart below:
Compare Medigap Plan Coverage
| Medigap Benefits | Plan A | Plan B | Plan C | Plan D | Plan F* | Plan G* | Plan K | Plan L | Plan M | Plan N |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part A coinsurance and hospital costs up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are used up | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Part B coinsurance or copayment | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 50% | 75% | Yes | Yes*** |
| Blood (first 3 pints) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 50% | 75% | Yes | Yes |
| Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 50% | 75% | Yes | Yes |
| Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 50% | 75% | Yes | Yes |
| Part A deductible | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 50% | 75% | 50% | Yes |
| Part B deductible | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No |
| Part B excess charge | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Foreign travel exchange (up to plan limits) | No | No | 80% | 80% | 80% | 80% | No | No | 80% | 80% |
| Out-of-pocket limit** | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | $6,620 | $3,310 | N/A | N/A |
* Plans F and G also offer a high-deductible plan in some states.
Navigating the Alphabet Soup: Choosing a Plan
Choosing a Medigap plan comes down to your individual needs and budget. If you prefer predictable costs and don’t mind potentially higher premiums, you might lean towards plans like F or G.
If lower monthly premiums sound better and you are willing to potentially pay a bit more out-of-pocket, Plans K or N could be appealing. Medicare beneficiaries who travel outside the U.S. a lot should pay close attention to plan benefits. Make sure you select a plan that gives you what you’re looking for.
It’s about striking a balance that fits your healthcare needs and financial situation. This brings up another important factor: Plan F. Known for its comprehensive coverage, this plan type is no longer available to those newly eligible for Medicare after December 31, 2019.
Don’t worry, though, there are still many great options like Plan G, a very popular choice, that offers similar coverage. Speaking of Plan G, monthly premiums vary quite a bit. If you’re a 65-year-old female non-smoker, the range spans from around $106 to $423 depending on the insurance company and the specific plan benefits.
If you’re wondering how different Medigap Plans compare, take a look at Plan A vs. Plan G, Plan G vs. Plan N, and why people consider High Deductible Plan G.
Essential Information for Kansans
Kansas offers free Medicare counseling. To encourage participation, Kansas offers this helpful resource that provides free personalized support to recipients to guide them in navigating insurance matters related to their health. This can help you get detailed answers.
Several programs are available: the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services and Kansas Area Agencies on Aging are just two options.
When choosing a plan, you must weigh coverage, monthly premiums, deductibles, and potential out-of-pocket expenses. Kansas also has a significant detail you need to be aware of. Medigap insurers are not required to provide plans to those with disabilities under 65 who are enrolled in Medicare.
This limits the availability of options.
Conclusion
Remember, with numerous medigap plans in Kansas available, thorough research is key to making an informed decision. Each plan offers its own set of advantages.
Be sure to explore all available options carefully. You deserve the peace of mind knowing you have the proper coverage for any future health needs.