Best Medicare Supplement Plans in Hennepin County

Finding the Best Medicare Supplement plan in Hennepin County, Minnesota, can be daunting. With many plans and providers, deciding which is right for you can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to make sure you get the best coverage possible for your unique situation.

Here are our picks for the Best Medicare Supplement Plans In Hennepin County:

• The Extended Basic Medicare Supplement Plan from Mutual of Omaha: $225.29 per month
• The Basic Medicare Supplement Plan plus Riders from UnitedHealthcare: $273.00 per month
• Minnesota’s Version of Plan N (PBCO) from Cigna Health and Life Insurance Plan: $156.16 per month
• The High Deductible Plan F from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota: $59.95 per month

How Do Medicare Supplement Plans Work In Minnesota?

The Minnesota Department of Human Services has rules and regulations governing the state’s Medicare supplement plans sale. These plans are designed to help cover gaps in Original Medicare coverage, such as deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

To purchase a plan, you must be enrolled in Original Part A and Part B of Medicare.

Unlike Medicare supplement plans in many other states, Minnesota Medigap plans have some unique characteristics. Minnesota, Massachusetts, and Wisconsin have waiver authority from the federal government to standardize their Medigap plans differently than most of the country.

Rather than offering the typical Plans A through N, Minnesota offers other alternative basic plans:

• The Basic Plan
• The Basic Plan With Riders
• The Extended Basic Plan
• Minnesota’s Version of Plan N (PBCO)

The best way to determine which Medigap plan is right for you and your budget is to compare different plans and providers.

It’s important to note that while the coverage levels are different, the goal of all Medigap plans, whether in Minnesota or another state, is the same – to help cover the out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare.

What Are Riders?

In addition to the three primary plans, some providers offer additional coverage through riders. Riders may provide additional benefits such as copayments for hospital stays or increased coverage for medical emergency services when out of state or abroad.

The cost of riders can vary greatly depending on the type of rider, the provider, and individual health status. Some common types of riders, such as those for additional hospital care days or emergency travel coverage, can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars per month. It’s essential to remember that while riders can provide added benefits, they do come at an extra cost.

What Are The Coverage Differences Between These Plans?

The Basic Plan, Extended Basic Plan, Minnesota’s Version of Plan N (PBCO) have the following key differences:

• Basic Plan: This fundamental plan offers coverage for Medicare Part A and B coinsurance, and skilled nursing facility coinsurance. This is a foundational plan designed to cover the most essential Medicare costs.
• Extended Basic Plan: This plan includes all the coverage of the Basic Plan and additionally covers Medicare Part A and Part B co-insurance, skilled nursing facility coinsurance, emergencies during foreign travel, and 100% of the Medicare Part B excess charges. This broadened coverage suits those requiring more exhaustive healthcare services or those traveling frequently.
• Minnesota’s Version of Plan N (PBCO): This plan covers all the same benefits as its federal counterpart but does not cover Part B excess charges. This comprehensive plan is designed for individuals who want coverage benefits equivalent to the national standard of Medigap Plan N. Like Medicare Supplement Plan N, there may be co-payments of $20 per doctor visit and $50 per Emergency Room visit.

It is important to note that the Basic Plan does not cover the Part A Rider, Part B Excess Charges, or Preventitie Services not covered by Medicare. However, you can add these coverages by purchasing additional riders. 

How Much Do Medigap Policies Cost in Minnesota?

The cost of Medigap policy monthly premiums can vary depending on the provider and plan type. However, most plans typically range from $80 to $250 monthly. Some providers offer discounts for spouses or partners who join the same plan and household.

Premiums vary by age, gender, tobacco status, and location. Because rates vary, it’s important to shop and compare several companies so you are not overpaying for the same coverage.

When Can I Apply For A Plan?

Medicare beneficiaries can apply for coverage at any time during the year. However, if they choose to enroll in a plan within the first six months of receiving their Medicare Part B coverage, they will be eligible for an open enrollment period and guaranteed issue rights – meaning they cannot be denied coverage due to preexisting conditions or other factors.

After the initial six-month period, individuals can still apply for a plan. However, they may only be approved if their application and health condition meet the eligibility requirements of their chosen plan.

FAQ

Are Medigap Plans Popular in Minnesota?

Yes, Medigap plans are popular in Minnesota. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), over half of people with Original Medicare also have a Medigap plan. This means that many seniors in the state choose to get additional coverage to protect themselves from higher out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare.

Is There Medical Assistance for Medicare Beneficiaries in Minnesota?

Yes, assistance programs are available to help seniors in Minnesota with their Medicare costs. To learn more about Medical Assistance in Minnesota, contact your local county social services or the Minnesota Department of Insurance.

To learn more about Medicare in Minnesota, visit https://www.mnhealthcarechoices.com/.