Medigap covers medical gaps, not medications. Here's how to get prescription coverage alongside your Medigap plan.
Why don't Medigap plans cover drugs?
Medigap plans don't cover prescription drugs because, since 2006, Medicare separated drug coverage into its own program, Part D. Before that, some Medigap plans included limited drug benefits, but those plans are no longer sold, and any covering drugs were essentially grandfathered. Today, every standardized Medigap plan (A through N) covers only the gaps in Original Medicare's hospital and medical benefits, not medications. To cover your prescriptions, you enroll in a standalone Part D plan that pairs with your Medigap policy. This two-policy approach, Medigap plus Part D, gives you comprehensive medical and drug coverage. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) to set up both.
How do you get prescription coverage with Medigap?
To cover medications alongside Medigap, you enroll in a standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. You can do this when you first get Medicare or during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7) each year. Part D plans vary by the drugs they cover (their formulary), pharmacy networks, and costs, so it's important to match a plan to your specific medications. Choosing the wrong Part D plan can cost hundreds extra per year. Enrolling in Part D when first eligible also helps you avoid a late-enrollment penalty. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can match a Part D plan to your prescriptions, free.