Choosing the right Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan is crucial for covering out-of-pocket costs not addressed by Original Medicare. Highmark and Anthem are two prominent providers offering a range of Medigap plans. This comparison explores their offerings, benefits, and considerations to help you make an informed decision.
Highmark Medicare Supplement Plans
Availability: Highmark offers Medigap plans in Delaware, West Virginia, New York, and most parts of Pennsylvania.
Plan Options:
- Plan A: Basic coverage including Part A coinsurance and hospital costs.
- Plan B: Includes Plan A benefits plus the Part A deductible.
- Plan C: Comprehensive coverage, including Part B deductible (available only to those eligible before January 1, 2020).
- Plan F: Most extensive coverage, including Part B excess charges (also limited to pre-2020 enrollees).
- Plan G: Similar to Plan F but excludes the Part B deductible.
- Plan N: Lower premiums with copayments for certain services.
Additional Benefits:
- Access to a broad network of providers.
- Optional dental, vision, and hearing coverage in some plans.
Anthem Medicare Supplement Plans
Availability: Anthem offers Medigap plans in various states, including California, Colorado, Georgia, and Ohio.
Plan Options:
- Plan A: Basic benefits covering Part A coinsurance and hospital costs.
- Plan F: Comprehensive coverage, including Part B deductible and excess charges (available only to those eligible before January 1, 2020).
- Plan G: Extensive coverage excluding the Part B deductible.
- Plan N: Lower premiums with copayments for office and emergency room visits.
Additional Benefits:
- Silver Sneakers®: Fitness program membership.
- Anthem Extras: Optional packages for dental and vision coverage.
- Travel Assistance: Support for medical emergencies while traveling.
Comparative Analysis
| Feature | Highmark | Anthem |
| Plan Availability | DE, WV, NY, PA | Multiple states including CA, CO, GA, OH |
| Plan Options | A, B, C, F, G, N | A, F, G, N |
| Additional Benefits | Optional dental, vision, hearing | SilverSneakers®, Anthem Extras, Travel Assistance |
| Network Access | Broad network in service areas | Extensive network across various states |
| Eligibility for Plan F | Available to those eligible before 2020 | Available to those eligible before 2020 |
Key Considerations
- Eligibility: Plan F is only available to individuals who became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
- Coverage Needs: Assess which benefits are most important to you, such as coverage for foreign travel emergencies or fitness programs.
- Budget: Consider the balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
- Provider Network: Ensure your preferred healthcare providers are within the plan’s network.
Both Highmark and Anthem offer robust Medicare Supplement plans with varying benefits and coverage options. Your choice should align with your healthcare needs, budget, and preferred providers. It’s advisable to compare specific plan details and consult with a licensed insurance advisor to determine the best fit for your situation.