Medicare supplement insurance, aka Medigap, lowers your out-of-pocket costs, and helps you afford better health care. Here are some of the benefits of a basic Medigap plan:

• The basic Medigap plan "A" pays for your hospital cost that is not covered by Medicare for days 61 through 150, and covers 365 more hospital days in your lifetime.
• Medigap A covers 20% of the Medicare-approved bill for doctor services and 50 percent for mental health services. In conjunction with Medicare, it adds up to 100% of your doctor and mental health services (besides the deductible).
• Medigap A covers the first three pints of blood you need each year before Medicare kicks in.

Depending on amount of premium you pay, the remaining Medigap plans B-J cover the following benefits: hospital deductibles, lower doctor visit and mental health charges, skilled nursing home costs, foreign travel emergency, at-home recovery, preventive care, and prescription drugs. Select the insurance plan that serves you best on these criteria!