by Russell Noga | Updated January 12th, 2025
Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans help cover costs that Original Medicare does not. This article explains their benefits, what they cover, and how to choose the best plan for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans help cover out-of-pocket expenses not included in Original Medicare, such as coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles, providing financial relief for beneficiaries.
- The plans offer a variety of options with different coverage levels, including hospital and outpatient services, as well as additional benefits like dental and vision care.
- Enrollment in Highmark BCBS Medigap plans is primarily available to individuals aged 65 and older who are enrolled in Original Medicare, with the best enrollment period being during the six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period.
Compare 2025 Plans & Rates
Enter Zip Code
Overview of Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans
Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans cover out-of-pocket expenses that Original Medicare does not, such as coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles. This coverage helps reduce the financial burden on beneficiaries, enabling more effective management of healthcare costs. With Highmark BCBS, you can enjoy the freedom to choose any provider that accepts Medicare, without worrying about network restrictions.
These Medigap plans provide comprehensive Medigap coverage that fills gaps in Original Medicare, offering peace of mind and financial security. Covering essential services like hospital stays and outpatient care, Highmark BCBS Medigap plans ensure access to necessary care.
Whether you’re facing a minor procedure or a major health event, having a Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plan can make a significant difference in your healthcare experience.
Detailed Breakdown of Benefits
Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans fill the gaps in Original Medicare, providing access to essential healthcare services without high out-of-pocket costs. These plans help manage healthcare expenses by covering hospital stays, outpatient care, and other necessary medical services. Each plan option offers varying levels of coverage, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs.
In addition to basic coverage, Highmark BCBS plans may include dental, vision, and hearing benefits, enhancing your overall health and wellness. The cost-sharing structure in these plans helps beneficiaries manage their healthcare costs effectively, providing detailed information about premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket cost management.
Knowing the specific benefits of each plan is key to selecting the right coverage for your needs.
Part A Coverage
Highmark BCBS Medigap plans provide essential coverage for hospital care costs, significantly reducing out-of-pocket expenses for beneficiaries. These plans typically cover the Medicare Part A coinsurance, which means you pay less after meeting your deductible. This coverage can be particularly valuable for those who anticipate frequent hospital visits, as it ensures that hospital care costs are managed effectively.
Some Medigap plans may include deductibles that need to be met before coverage begins, but once these deductibles are satisfied, the plans provide extensive coverage for hospital stays and related services. Relieving financial stress associated with hospital care, Highmark BCBS Medigap plans offer peace of mind and enable beneficiaries to focus on recovery.
Part B Coverage
Highmark BCBS Medigap plans also play a crucial role in covering outpatient care costs that Original Medicare does not fully cover. For instance, if you receive outpatient services that require a coinsurance payment, a Medigap plan can help cover that cost, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses. This ensures that you are less burdened by unexpected health-related costs, allowing for better management of your healthcare expenses.
These plans assist with out-of-pocket expenses such as copayments and coinsurance, providing comprehensive coverage that helps beneficiaries manage their healthcare costs more effectively. Covering additional expenses, Highmark BCBS Medigap plans provide significant financial relief and ensure access to necessary medical care without high costs.
Foreign Travel Emergency
One of the standout features of Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans is the coverage for emergency medical treatment while traveling abroad. This coverage ensures that members are protected during unforeseen health issues, providing peace of mind when traveling outside the U.S. Whether you’re on a vacation or visiting family abroad, knowing that you have access to necessary healthcare services can make all the difference.
However, certain limitations apply to foreign travel emergency coverage, such as the requirement that claims be submitted within a specified time frame and that treatment is only covered after a deductible is met. Knowing these coverage options, eligibility criteria, and limitations is crucial for members planning to travel abroad, ensuring they are fully prepared for any medical emergencies.
Highmark BCBS Plan Options
Highmark BCBS offers a variety of Medicare Supplement Plan options, each designed to enhance your Original Medicare coverage. These plans are standardized across states, ensuring that the basic benefits are consistent regardless of location. However, not all plan types may be available in specific locations like Pennsylvania and West Virginia, which can affect your choices.
Choosing the right Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plan requires consideration of both standard benefits and local availability. Understanding the different plan options and their specific benefits helps you select the plan that best meets your healthcare needs and financial situation.
Plan A
Plan A covers essential hospital services, including Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs. This plan provides coverage for the first three pints of blood needed for a medical procedure, ensuring that you have access to necessary medical care without worrying about high costs. Additionally, Plan A includes coverage for skilled nursing facility care coinsurance, making it a valuable option for those who anticipate frequent hospital visits.
Plan A is well-suited for beneficiaries who require financial support for hospital care, offering peace of mind and comprehensive coverage for essential medical services. Covering these critical expenses, Plan A helps beneficiaries manage their healthcare costs effectively and ensures access to necessary care.
Plan B
Plan B offers supplemental coverage that extends beyond the basic services covered by Original Medicare. One of the key benefits of Plan B is its coverage for the Medicare Part A deductible, which helps reduce out-of-pocket expenses for hospital stays.
However, Plan B does not include benefits for foreign travel emergencies, distinguishing it from some other Medicare supplement plans.
Plan C
Plan C is available for those who were eligible for Medicare before 2020, allowing for broad access to benefits that fill gaps in Original Medicare coverage. This plan provides extensive benefits, including coverage for Part A and Part B deductibles, coinsurance, and foreign travel emergencies. Additionally, Plan C covers 100% of the Part B excess charges that may occur after Original Medicare pays.
In addition to hospitalization and outpatient care, Plan C assists with costs related to skilled nursing facility care, making it a robust option for eligible beneficiaries seeking comprehensive coverage. Overall, Plan C is an excellent choice for those looking to reduce out-of-pocket costs and ensure access to necessary medical services.
Plan D
Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plan D provides significant coverage for out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare. One of the key benefits of Plan D is that it does not require the payment of the Part B deductible, leading to reduced overall costs for beneficiaries.
Plan F
Plan F offers comprehensive coverage, including coverage for deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance associated with Original Medicare. With Plan F, beneficiaries can enjoy peace of mind knowing that virtually all out-of-pocket expenses not covered by Medicare are taken care of. This plan is available for individuals who qualified for Medicare before January 1, 2020, making it a valuable option for those who meet this criterion.
For those looking to save on premiums, the high-deductible option for Plan F is an attractive choice, requiring a higher out-of-pocket cost before coverage begins but offering significant savings on monthly premiums. Beneficiaries opting for the high-deductible Plan F need to meet a specified deductible amount before receiving full coverage benefits.
Plan G
Plan G is one of the most comprehensive Medicare Supplement plans available, designed to help cover the gaps left by Original Medicare. It is particularly well-suited for new Medicare beneficiaries seeking extensive coverage. Plan G covers a wide array of services, including hospital costs, outpatient care, and emergency care abroad, making it a popular choice among new enrollees.
However, Plan G does not cover the Part B deductible, which is a key feature that distinguishes it from other plans. Despite this, Plan G remains a top choice for its comprehensive nature and extensive coverage options.
Plan N
Plan N offers a unique cost-sharing structure that helps manage healthcare expenses for beneficiaries. Under Plan N, beneficiaries may face copayments for certain outpatient services, such as a $20 copayment for doctor visits and a $50 copay for emergency room visits that do not end in admission.
Additionally, Plan N does not cover Part B excess charges, which can help keep out-of-pocket costs lower for enrollees.
Compare Medicare Plans & Rates in Your Area
Extra Benefits with Highmark BCBS Medigap Plans
Highmark BCBS Medigap plans offer additional services designed to enhance overall health and wellness for their members. These extra benefits include comprehensive dental coverage, which often includes preventive care, basic services, and major dental work, ensuring that members maintain optimal oral health.
Additionally, Highmark BCBS offers vision coverage that may include routine eye exams, lenses, and frames, helping members maintain their eye health and address vision-related concerns.
These extra benefits make Highmark BCBS Medigap plans a valuable choice for those seeking comprehensive health insurance coverage that goes beyond basic medical care.
Comparing Highmark BCBS Medigap Plans
The availability of specific Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans can vary based on geographic location, which is important to consider when comparing different plan options. Highmark BCBS offers various Medicare Supplement Plans designed to complement Original Medicare, providing coverage for out-of-pocket expenses such as coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles.
When comparing plans, consider both the standard benefits and any additional services offered, such as dental and vision coverage. By understanding the differences between each plan, you can make an informed decision about which Highmark BCBS Medigap plan best meets your healthcare needs and financial situation.
Enrollment Process
Enrolling in Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans is a straightforward process, but it’s crucial to understand the timing and requirements. Enrollment for these plans is dependent on the renewal of the plan’s contract with Medicare, so it’s important to stay informed about any changes or updates that may affect your coverage.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for Highmark BCBS Medigap plans, individuals must be enrolled in Original Medicare, which includes Part A and Part B. Eligibility for Medigap plans is generally available to those who are 65 years of age or older, although some states offer plans to individuals under 65. This ensures that a wide range of beneficiaries can access the benefits provided by these plans.
The best time to enroll in a Medigap plan is during the six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which starts when you are 65 and enrolled in Part B. During this period, you have a guaranteed right to purchase any Medigap policy available in your area, regardless of your health status. This makes it an ideal time to secure the coverage you need without worrying about medical underwriting.
How to Enroll
The best time to enroll in a Medigap policy is during the six-month period that begins when you turn 65 and enroll in Part B. To enroll, you can contact Highmark BCBS directly or work with a licensed insurance agent who can help you compare available plans and select the best option for your needs.
Enrolling during this period can help you avoid higher premiums and limited coverage options due to pre-existing conditions.
Cost Considerations
Knowing the cost considerations for Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans is crucial for managing your healthcare budget effectively. The premiums for these plans can differ widely based on the plan chosen and the state of residence.
Carefully evaluating the costs associated with each plan allows you to make an informed decision that fits your financial constraints.
Premiums and Deductibles
Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans typically require a monthly premium that is paid directly to the insurer. These premiums can vary based on factors like the specific plan chosen, the beneficiary’s age, and their location. Understanding these variations is essential for managing your healthcare costs and ensuring that your chosen plan fits within your budget.
In addition to premiums, most Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans have an annual deductible, which is the amount a beneficiary must pay before the plan begins to cover costs. Understanding both monthly premiums and annual deductibles helps beneficiaries effectively manage their healthcare expenses and plan for any out-of-pocket costs.
Out-of-Pocket Costs
Original Medicare does not cover all medical expenses, leading to potential out-of-pocket costs for beneficiaries. Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans are designed to help cover these out-of-pocket costs, providing significant financial relief for beneficiaries. These costs may include deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments for medical services, which can add up quickly without supplemental coverage.
Covering these additional expenses, Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans can significantly reduce the financial burden on beneficiaries, allowing access to necessary medical care without high out-of-pocket costs. This comprehensive coverage ensures that beneficiaries can focus on their health and well-being rather than financial concerns.
Customer Support and Resources
Highmark BCBS offers robust customer support and resources to assist beneficiaries in selecting and enrolling in the right Medigap plan. Individuals can contact their local Blue Cross Blue Shield company for personalized assistance, ensuring they receive the guidance they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage.
In addition to direct support, several online resources are available to help beneficiaries navigate their healthcare options. Websites like Medisupps.com provide valuable information about Medicare services, enrollment processes, and policy details. These resources can be instrumental in helping beneficiaries understand their options and make the best choices for their healthcare needs.
Compare 2025 Plans & Rates
Enter Zip Code
Summary
In summary, Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans 2025 offer comprehensive coverage that fills the gaps left by Original Medicare, providing significant financial relief and peace of mind for beneficiaries. By understanding the various plan options, benefits, cost considerations, and enrollment processes, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage that suit your needs and budget. Embrace the security and support that Highmark BCBS Medigap plans provide, and enjoy the confidence of knowing your healthcare is in good hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans?
Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement Plans help cover out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare does not, including coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles. This ensures you have added financial protection for your healthcare needs.
Who is eligible for Highmark BCBS Medigap plans?
To be eligible for Highmark BCBS Medigap plans, you must be enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and generally be at least 65 years old, although some states may offer plans to those under 65.
What is the best time to enroll in a Medigap plan?
The best time to enroll in a Medigap plan is during the six-month Open Enrollment Period that begins when you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. Enrolling during this time ensures you have guaranteed issue rights and the best selection of plans.
How do Highmark BCBS Medigap plans help with out-of-pocket costs?
Highmark BCBS Medigap plans help alleviate out-of-pocket costs by covering expenses like deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments, thus easing the financial strain on beneficiaries.
Speak to the Professionals about Medigap Plans and Original Medicare
If you find understanding the benefits involved with Original Medicare and Medigap Plans challenging, you’re not alone. Whether it’s a Medigap plan, or you want to know more about the Highmark BCBS Medicare Supplement in 2025, we can help. Call our team at 1-888-891-0229 for a free consultation or complete the contact form on this site, and an expert will call you back at a convenient time.
We have decades of experience advising our clients on the complexities of Medicare and Medigap plans, the benefits, costs and deductibles. We’ll ensure you get the best rate in your state and advice you can trust.
Russell Noga is the CEO and Medicare editor of Medisupps.com. His 15 years of experience in the Medicare insurance market includes being a licensed Medicare insurance broker in all 50 states. He is frequently featured as a featured as a keynote Medicare event speaker, has authored hundreds of Medicare content pages, and hosts the very popular Medisupps.com Medicare Youtube channel. His expertise includes Medicare, Medigap insurance, Medicare Advantage plans, and Medicare Part D.