Don’t Let Misinformation Guide Your Medicare Decisions

Choosing a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan can be confusing — especially when misinformation spreads faster than facts. Below, we break down the 10 most common Medigap myths and explain what’s actually true, so you can make smarter, more confident coverage choices.

Myth #1: Medigap and Medicare Advantage Are the Same Thing

Fact: Medigap and Medicare Advantage are completely different.

• Medigap supplements Original Medicare, helping pay your share of costs like deductibles and copayments.

• Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that includes its own network, benefits, and costs.
  You can’t have both at the same time.

Myth #2: Medigap Covers Prescription Drugs

Fact: Medigap does not cover prescription drugs.
To get medication coverage, you’ll need to add a standalone Medicare Part D plan.

Myth #3: You Can Enroll in Medigap Anytime Without Restrictions

Fact: You can apply anytime, but timing matters.
The best time to enroll is during your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which begins when you’re 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this window, you’re guaranteed acceptance without medical underwriting. Afterward, insurers can deny coverage or charge more based on your health.

Myth #4: All Medigap Plans Are Different

Fact: Medigap plans are standardized by the federal government.
That means Plan G offers the same benefits no matter which insurance company sells it — the only differences are in price and service quality.

Myth #5: Once You Choose a Medigap Plan, You’re Stuck Forever

Fact: You can switch Medigap plans at any time.
However, outside your open enrollment window, you might have to answer health questions. Some states (like California and New York) offer special rules that make switching easier.

Myth #6: Medigap Covers Everything

Fact: Medigap covers many costs, but not all.
It helps with Medicare-approved expenses, but doesn’t cover:

• Routine dental, vision, or hearing care

• Prescription drugs

• Long-term care
  For comprehensive protection, pair Medigap with Part D and other supplemental coverage.

Myth #7: Medigap Plans Are Too Expensive

Fact: Many Medigap plans are more affordable than people think — especially when you compare them to out-of-pocket costs without coverage.
Plans like Plan N or high-deductible Plan G offer lower monthly premiums while still providing excellent protection.

Myth #8: You Have to Use a Network of Doctors

Fact: Medigap has no networks.
You can see any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare, without referrals or restrictions.

Myth #9: Medigap Plans Differ by State

Fact: The benefits are standardized nationwide, but prices and availability vary by state.
States like Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin use their own Medigap structures, but coverage levels are equivalent to federal plans.

Myth #10: Medigap Isn’t Worth It If You’re Healthy

Fact: Medigap is valuable insurance against the unexpected.
Even if you’re healthy now, one hospital stay or surgery can cost thousands. Medigap gives you predictable costs and peace of mind for the future.