I will be eligible for Medicare soon but am very confused about supplemental insurance coverage...please help!?

There are two types of "supplemental" coverage you can get.

One type is a Medicare Supplement. They come in different flavors; Plans A, B, C, D, F, F+, G, K, L, M, and N. Each plan is exactly the same from company to company, so you'll want to ask your agent about the customer service and the rate increase history of the plans that are available in your state. Be aware that NO Medicare Supplement has drug coverage, so you'll need to get a separate stand alone drug plan.

The other type is a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans are county and even zip code specific so you'll need to ask your agent what is available where you live. These plans come in several different flavors also; HMO, HMO/POS, PPO, PFFS, MSA, SNP, Dual, Cost and PACE plans. Many, but not all, Medicare Advantage plans have drug coverage included. Of those that don't, certain flavors will allow you to get a separate stand alone drug plan and certain flavors don't.

Your agent will need to do an analysis of your medications to determine the most cost effective drug plan to go with, be it a stand alone plan or one that is included with the Medicare Advantage plans.

There are pros and cons with both types. Your agent will be able to help you determine which plan is best for you, and will explain how each plan works. There is no charge using an agent.

If you enroll in straight Medicare which most do, it covers only up to 80% of your out patient costs so people purchase a Medigap supplement from any private insurance company. to cover the balance. The cost of the Medigap plan depends on several factors. If you buy a Medicare Advantage plan you dont need the supplement because you pay monthly for the Advantage plan but it includes your Part D drug plan.

Look at the Medicare site plan finder.

You need to talk to a local, local to you, independent agent with experience in Medicare supplemental plans. They'll know what's available in your state, and what people in your area are most happy with; and they'll be able to help you select a plan for YOUR specific health needs.