Medicare is similar to a health insurance programs, and is for people 65 years of age and older, the disabled, and those with End-Stage Renal Disease.

Nearly 40 million Americans use Medicare. There are two types of Medicare:

• Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers in-patient hospital care and charges.
• Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers doctors' services, outpatient hospital care, and some other medical services that Part A does not cover.

Despite the extensive coverage, many other medical expenses are not covered, or have limited coverage by Medicare. Prescription medicine and routine check-ups are often not covered by Medicare.

To fill the cost gap for Medicare patients, consider medicare supplement insurance, which is often sometimes referred to as MedSupp or Medigap. Medicare supplement insurance lowers your out-of-pocket costs, and helps you afford better health care.

Medicare supplement insurance is sold by private insurance companies. There are 10 standard Medicare Supplement Insurance plans - named A-J. Each plan offers differing levels of coverage depending on your needs.