Health Insurance: Frequently asked questions

Jun. 30, 2006

I have Medicare, but it doesn't cover all of my health insurance needs, such as prescription medications. What can I do?

Consider buying a supplemental Medicare policy, known as Medigap. There are 10 standard Medigap policies available in the United States, lettered A through J, with A having the fewest benefits and costing the least, and J having the most benefits and costing the most. Plans H, I, and J all offer prescription coverage, at varying levels.

Read our story about the 10 standardardized Medigap plans to learn more about the specific benefits offered by each one.

Bear in mind that while the plan benefits might be standardized across the country, the premiums are not. That means it'll pay you to shop around, as some plans can vary in price by hundreds of dollars.

Filling in Medicare's gaps offers tips and warnings about buying the best plan to suit your needs.

Back to frequently asked health insurance questions