Regular Medicare covers 80% of the costs. With a Medicare Supplement plan, coverage is what is approved by Medicare and the supplemental part will pay the balance of 20% not paid by Medicare. You pay a monthly premium for the plan and will not receive a bill unless it is a service that Medicare does not cover. This plan allows you to see any doctor who accepts Medicare anywhere in the country.

Medicare Supplement plans are identified by letters A thru N, each with different costs, benefits, and premium amounts. Each plan must offer the same basic benefits no matter which company offers it. Medicare Supplement plans do not include Part D prescription drug plans. You must purchase that separately.