1. You receive a covered medical service.
2. Original Medicare pays its approved share of the cost.
3. You might still be responsible for a portion (copay, coinsurance, deductible).
4. Medigap swoops in! It pays a part of this remaining balance, depending on your specific plan, reducing your financial burden.

• Original Medicare is a requirement. You can't get Medigap without Parts A & B. Medigap supplements your existing coverage, not replace it.
• It's an extra expense. You'll pay a separate monthly premium to your private insurer on top of your Part B premium.
• Individual coverage. Spouses need separate Medigap plans if both want coverage.
• Guaranteed renewal for responsible payers. Once enrolled, the insurance company can't cancel your policy as long as you pay your premiums, even if your health changes.
• No prescriptions with Medigap. Look into a separate Medicare Part D plan if you need prescription drug coverage. Medigap policies sold after 2006 can't include it.
• Not compatible with Medicare Advantage Plans. You can't have both. Switching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to Medigap requires confirming you can leave the Advantage Plan first.

Understanding Medigap can empower you to make informed decisions about your healthcare and manage out-of-pocket costs more effectively.