Which gap in Medicare coverage is typically addressed by Medicare Supplement Insurance?

• A. Outpatient surgery co-pay
• B. Medicare in-hospital deductible
• C. Prescription drug coverage
• D. Medicare Part B premium

Answer: (B)

Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) is designed to fill gaps in Original Medicare by covering costs that Medicare doesn’t pay, such as deductibles and coinsurance. A classic gap that Medigap plans address is the inpatient hospital deductible under Part A—the amount you must pay before Medicare starts paying for a hospital stay. This is a common out-of-pocket expense that Medigap can help reduce, making hospital stays more affordable. Prescription drug coverage is provided by Part D, not Medigap, and Medigap does not cover Part B premiums. While Medigap can help with various Part B cost shares as well, the hospital deductible is the primary gap it’s known to address.