Beginning in 2010, consumers will see dramatic changes in available Medicare Supplement Plans, including the addition of two plans and the elimination of four plans. The changes, which take effect on June 1, 2010, will lower out-of-pocket expenses to consumers and give consumers some additional benefits in their current plans.

Medicare Supplement Plans, also called Medigap Insurance policies, are plans that are sold by private insurance companies to cover healthcare costs that are not covered by Medicare in Original Medicare Plans. Individuals are eligible for Medicare healthcare coverage if they are at least 65 years old or have a qualifying disability.

Currently, there are 12 different types of Medicare Supplement Plans, labeled Plan A through Plan L. Each different plan offers a unique set of benefits. Different plans may be available in different parts of the country.

Medicare Supplement Plans must abide by all Federal and State laws that are designed to protect consumers. However, because these plans are sold through private insurers, prices for the same plan may vary from insurer to insurer.

Medicare Supplement Plan Additions and Changes

The two new Medicare Supplement Plans include Plan N and Plan M. Plan N will offer similar benefits to Plan F along with a $20 co-payment for doctor visits and a $50 co-payment for visits to the emergency room. Plan N will cost about 70 percent of Plan F.

Plan M also offers similar benefits to the current Plan F. However, Plan M will cover only 50 percent of parts A and B deductibles. Plan M will cost about 85 percent of Plan F. 

All Medicare Supplement Plans will have a hospice care benefit added to them. Also, Plan G will have 100 percent coverage for excess ariafl.com/florida-drug-alcohol-rehab-programs/detox-programs-flori... ; it currently has 80 percent coverage for such charges.

Medicare Supplement Plans Being Eliminated

Plans E, H, I, and J will no longer be offered beginning in June 2010.  The preventative care and at-home-recovery benefits will also be eliminated from Medigap policies.

Seniors are advised to review their Medicare plans to see if they will be effected by the changes or if they can get lower rates with the new plans. They may also wish to consider obtaining Medicare Part D to cover some costs of medications. Medicare Part D helps to reduce the cost of many medications, but may not be used in conjunction with some Medicare Plans. Therefore, it is recommended that all Medicare subscribers review their options with an advisor that can provide specific information and advice on a case-by-case basis to Medicare subscribers.