Medicare Supplement Insurance, also known as Medigap, is a health program that provides supplemental coverage to fill in the gaps left by Original Medicare. Medicare covers many health care costs, but it doesn’t pay for everything.

Medigap plans are offered by private insurance companies and help cover out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. These plans can also provide coverage for services not covered by Medicare, such as medical care when traveling outside the United States.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families. It is a means-tested program, meaning that eligibility is based on income and other factors.

Medicaid offers a wide range of health benefits, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and long-term care. Some states also offer additional optional benefits, such as prescription drugs, vision, and dental care. Medicaid can act as a secondary insurance alongside other health coverage programs to help cover out-of-pocket costs.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides cash assistance to individuals with low income who are aged, blind, or disabled.

While SSI itself does not provide health coverage, individuals who qualify for SSI are often eligible for Medicaid, which offers comprehensive health benefits. SSI recipients can receive additional financial assistance to help cover medical expenses not covered by Medicaid, such as copayments and prescription drugs.

State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP)

The State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), also known as the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), is a state and federal program that provides health coverage to low-income children and, in some states, pregnant women.

SCHIP offers comprehensive health benefits, including doctor visits, immunizations, hospital care, and emergency services. Eligibility and benefits vary by state, but SCHIP can act as a supplemental coverage program for children who do not qualify for Medicaid but still need affordable health insurance.

Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance

Employer-sponsored health insurance is a type of health coverage provided by an employer to its employees. Many employers offer health insurance benefits as part of their employee compensation package to attract and retain talent.

These plans can provide supplemental coverage to help employees pay for medical expenses not fully covered by other health programs, such as deductibles, copayments, and prescription drugs. Employer-sponsored health insurance may also include additional benefits like vision and dental coverage.

Tricare

Tricare is a health care program for active-duty and retired members of the uniformed services, their families, and survivors. It provides comprehensive coverage for medical services, prescription drugs, and mental health services.

Tricare can also act as supplemental coverage for military families who have other health insurance. Eligibility and coverage options vary depending on the member’s status and location.

Veterans Health Administration (VHA)

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States, providing comprehensive medical services to eligible veterans.

While VHA is a primary source of health care for veterans, it can also act as a supplemental coverage program for veterans who have other health insurance. Veterans may be eligible for additional benefits and services, such as specialized care for service-related injuries and mental health treatment.

Indian Health Service (IHS)

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is a federal health care program that provides medical care to eligible American Indians and Alaska Natives. IHS operates a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that offer a wide range of health services.

While IHS is the primary source of health care for many Native Americans, it can also provide supplemental coverage for those who have other health insurance. Eligibility for IHS services is based on tribal membership and other factors.

Health Insurance Marketplaces

The Health Insurance Marketplaces, also known as Health Insurance Exchanges, were established under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to provide individuals and families with a platform to compare and purchase health insurance plans.

These Marketplaces offer a range of health coverage options, including qualified health plans that comply with ACA requirements. Depending on income and other factors, individuals and families may be eligible for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions to make coverage more affordable.

Discount Health Programs

Discount health programs are not insurance plans, but they can provide supplemental coverage for certain health services. These programs offer discounts on various health care services, such as prescription drugs, dental care, and vision care.

While they do not provide full coverage like insurance plans, they can help individuals and families save money on out-of-pocket expenses. Discount health programs are typically offered through membership organizations or as add-ons to other health coverage options.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Long-term care insurance is a type of insurance designed to cover long-term care services, such as nursing home care, assisted living, and home health care.

Medicare and most health insurance plans do not cover these services, so long-term care insurance can provide supplemental coverage for individuals who need long-term care. Premiums for long-term care insurance can be costly, but having this coverage can help protect assets and provide financial security in the event of a long-term care need.