Trying to make sense of Medicare? You’re not alone. Many folks in Conway, Arkansas and all over the country find it confusing. Between the parts, the plans, the premiums — it can feel like a maze with no map.
That’s why we created this guide. It’s built for real people who want clear answers. Whether you’re turning 65 or helping a loved one sort through options, you deserve simple information and friendly support.
We’ll walk you through understanding Medicare supplement insurance — also known as Medigap — in a way that makes sense. So let’s dive in and help you feel more confident about your choices.
What Is Medicare and Why You Might Need Extra Insurance
You might already know that Original Medicare is made up of Part A (hospital coverage) and Part B (medical coverage). It helps cover your doctor visits, hospital stays, and some preventive care. But here’s the catch — Medicare doesn’t cover everything. You’re still on the hook for things like deductibles, coinsurance, and copays. And those out-of-pocket costs in Original Medicare? They can really add up.
That’s where Medicare supplement insurance — also called Medigap — comes in. It’s extra insurance you can buy from a private insurance company to help pay your share of health costs. These plans help cover what Original Medicare doesn’t.
So ask yourself — would you feel better knowing those surprise bills were covered?
How Medigap Works With Your Medicare Coverage
A Medicare supplement insurance plan works alongside your Original Medicare benefits. It’s not a Medicare Advantage Plan — those are different. Instead, Medigap plans are true “supplements,” helping pay your share of out-of-pocket costs like Part B coinsurance, Part A coinsurance and hospital costs, and sometimes even your Part B deductible if you’re eligible.
Each Medigap plan is labeled by a letter — Plan A through N. No matter which insurance company sells it, plans with the same letter offer the same benefits. For example, Plan G from one company offers the same Medicare coverage as Plan G from another.
That said, Medigap costs can vary quite a bit depending on your zip code, your age, and the insurance company you choose.
Choosing the Right Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan For You
Finding the right Medicare plan isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. The plan you choose should fit your needs, budget, and future expectations.
- Plan G: Very popular. It covers almost everything Original Medicare doesn’t, except the Part B deductible.
- Plan N: A bit more affordable. You pay lower premiums but may owe small copays for some doctor or ER visits.
- Plan F: Only available if you were eligible for Medicare before 2020.
Plans offer different levels of protection, but all give you the freedom to visit any doctor that accepts Medicare. That’s a huge perk, especially if you travel or see specialists.
When to Enroll in a Medicare Supplement Plan
Timing matters. The best time to enroll in a Medicare supplement plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. That’s a six-month window that starts the month you’re 65 or older and have Medicare Part B.
Why is this period so important? Because insurance companies can’t deny you coverage or charge you more due to past health issues during this time. Once it passes, you can still apply, but you may be subject to medical underwriting.
Missed that window? Don’t worry. We can still help you explore your options and find plans in your area that suit your needs.
What’s Covered and What’s Not in Medigap Policies
Medicare supplement insurance plans cover many of the costs that Original Medicare leaves behind, like:
- Part A hospital coinsurance
- Part B coinsurance or copays
- Blood (first 3 pints)
- Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
- Foreign travel emergency care (in some plans)
However, Medigap policies do not include prescription drug coverage. You’ll need to buy a separate Part D plan if you want that. These plans help pay for your medications and are offered by private insurance companies.
Also, dental, vision, hearing aids, and long-term care? Those aren’t covered either. But again, we’ll walk you through all your insurance options and help you piece together the right protection.
How to Find Medicare Supplement Plans Based on Your Zip Code
One of the easiest ways to get started? Enter your zip code into a Medicare tool or ask a local expert. The options for Medigap coverage vary by area, so plans based on your zip code may include different prices, companies, and coverage combinations.
At Overton Agency, we know the Conway Arkansas area inside and out. We’ve helped folks from every corner of town find extra insurance that fits their lifestyle. Whether you live near Tucker Creek Trail or out past Beaverfork Lake, we’ve got something that’ll work for you.
What Makes Overton Agency Different?
We’re not a call center. We’re your neighbors. And we take that role seriously. When you work with the Overton Agency, you’ll always get:
- Local expertise from folks who live right here in Conway
- Straight answers to your Medicare questions
- Support before and after you choose a plan
- Honest advice that fits your needs, not some corporate quota
Our team knows the ins and outs of Medicare supplement insurance and we’re always ready to help you learn more about Medicare. We’ll sit down with you, review your budget, talk about your doctors, and explain what each plan offers in plain English.
Just like you’d expect from a good neighbor.
Friendly Tips for Choosing the Right Medicare Coverage
Still feeling stuck? Here’s what we recommend:
- Review your current coverage — Look at what your Original Medicare plan covers and where the gaps are.
- Think ahead — Will you travel? Do you have chronic health needs? Need a low premium or full coverage?
- Get Medigap basics — Understand how different Medicare supplement insurance plans work.
- Ask for help — That’s what we’re here for! Drop by the Overton Agency, and we’ll go over all the plans available.
Remember, enrollment in these plans depends on your situation, but we’ll make it easy for you.
Ready to Get Started?
Overton Agency is here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re new to Medicare, confused by your prescription drug coverage, or just want someone to explain Medigap without all the jargon — we’re ready.
You’re not just a policy number to us. You’re our neighbor.
Stop by 1201 Oak St, Conway Arkansas, or give us a call 501-881-2050 today. Let’s figure out the right Medicare plan together.
