Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans
Also known as Medigap, this is health insurance that helps pay for Medicare Part A and Part B expenses not covered by Medicare. Some plans require copays and deductibles; routine dental, vision and hearing benefits are not included. Referrals are not required; beneficiaries may choose doctors or hospitals accepting Medicare. Plans are identical regardless of carrier.
Medicare Advantage (MA) Plans
Unlike Original Medicare Part A and Part B, some Medicare Advantage plans offer dental, vision and hearing coverage. The most common MA plans are HMOs, which facilitate the use of specified doctor and hospital networks in order to provide consumers with minimal out of pocket costs.
Primary care physicians frequently provide referrals to specialists; emergency services are covered outside of traditional service areas; and referrals are required for out-of-network providers.
Final Expense Insurance
Also referred to as burial insurance, Final Expense is a whole life insurance policy providing a lump sum death benefit to the policyholder in the event of their death. It is designed to pay death benefit proceeds very quickly, and may be used for burial, medical costs, cremation and travel expenses. In addition, funds can help pay off debt such as a mortgage or credit card balances.
Term Life Insurance
The most affordable form of life insurance, term life provides coverage for a specific period. The premium amount does not change during the policyholder’s lifetime. This policy pays if the policyholder dies unexpectedly during the term (contract). It does not build cash value or pay a death benefit once the policy term has expired.
Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans (PDP)
This is option, private insurance coverage for people who take medications.
- Some Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage
- Plan has a list of covered drugs, known as a formulary
- Drugs are segmented into tiers, each with its own pricing