- Licensed California Insurance Broker
Medicare Supplement
Alliance Business Solutions & Insurance Services
- At Alliance Business Solutions & Insurance Services
We specialize in cutting through that complexity. Our licensed Medicare advisors in Thousand Oaks, CA help seniors understand their options, compare plans side by side, and enroll with complete confidence — at no cost to you.
If you’re approaching 65 or transitioning off employer coverage, understanding Medicare can feel like learning a new language. Parts A, B, C, and D. Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage. Enrollment windows. Network restrictions. Out-of-pocket limits.
Understanding Medicare The Foundation
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health services. Most beneficiaries receive Part A without paying a monthly premium if they or a spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)
Covers outpatient services — doctor’s visits, preventive care, lab tests, medical equipment, and outpatient procedures. Part B requires a monthly premium based on income.
The Gap Problem
Together, Parts A and B cover a significant portion of healthcare costs but not all. Original Medicare does not have an out-of-pocket maximum, meaning your costs could be unlimited in a serious illness or hospital stay. That’s where supplement plans come in.
Understanding Medicare The Foundation
Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)
Medigap plans are sold by private insurance companies and work alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B). They pay for costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover — including copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Key features:
- Works with any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare (nationwide)
- Predictable, low out-of-pocket costs
- No referrals needed for specialists
- Coverage is guaranteed renewable as long as premiums are paid
- Popular plans include Plan G and Plan N
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers as an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare. They typically include Parts A, B, and often Part D, and may offer additional benefits like dental, vision, and fitness programs.
Key features:
- Often lower premiums than Medigap (sometimes $0/month)
- Typically restricted to provider networks (HMO or PPO)
- May require referrals and prior authorizations
- Out-of-pocket costs can vary significantly by plan and usage
Important:
You cannot have both a Medigap plan and a Medicare Advantage plan at the same time. Choosing between the two is one of the most important Medicare decisions you’ll make — and we’re here to help you make it wisely.
Medicare Enrollment Periods
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Begins 3 months before you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and ends 3 months after — a total of 7 months. Enrolling during this window avoids late enrollment penalties.
Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
If you are still covered by employer insurance when you turn 65, you may qualify for a SEP when that coverage ends — allowing you to enroll without a penalty.
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
From October 15 to December 7 each year, Medicare beneficiaries can make changes to their coverage that take effect January 1.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans work alongside Original Medicare to pay costs that Medicare doesn’t cover, such as copayments and deductibles. Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an all-in-one alternative offered by private insurers, usually with lower premiums but network restrictions. You cannot have both simultaneously.
What does Medicare not cover?
Original Medicare does not cover routine dental care, vision exams and eyeglasses, hearing aids, long-term custodial care, or most care outside the United States. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer partial coverage for some of these services.
Which Medigap plan is best?
The most popular Medigap plan for new enrollees is Plan G, which covers nearly all out-of-pocket costs after the Part B deductible. Plan N is another popular option with slightly lower premiums and minimal copays. The best plan depends on your health, how frequently you use healthcare services, and your budget.
How much does a Medicare Supplement plan cost?
Medigap premiums vary by plan type, carrier, age, gender, and location. In California, Plan G premiums typically range from approximately $100 to $300+ per month. We compare rates from multiple carriers to find you the best price.