By providing your phone number, you agree to receive text messages from Simple Medicare Choices. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Reply STOP to opt out

Medicare Supplement and Prescription Drug Plans

Understand how Medigap and Medicare Part D work together to help reduce healthcare costs and provide more complete coverage beyond Original Medicare.

Building a Complete Medicare Coverage Package

People under age 65 may qualify for Medicare if they have received Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for 24 months.

Original Medicare

Add Medicare Supplement (Medigap)

Add Part D Prescription Drug Plan

More Predictable Healthcare Costs

Medigap plans generally do not include prescription drug coverage, which is why many people pair them with a standalone Medicare Part D plan.

Medicare Supplement vs. Prescription Drug Plans

Although often purchased together, these plans serve different purposes.

Medicare Supplement Prescription Drug Plan (Part D)
Helps cover Medicare cost-sharing
Helps cover prescription medications
Works with Original Medicare
Works alongside Original Medicare
May reduce out-of-pocket medical costs
May reduce pharmacy expenses
Multiple plan options available
Coverage varies by drug formulary
No prescription drug coverage included
Focuses specifically on medications

Why Combine Medigap and Part D?

Before choosing a drug plan, it’s important to understand how coverage works.

  • Lower Medical Expenses

    Helps reduce unexpected deductibles and coinsurance costs.

  • Prescription Coverage

    Provides access to covered medications.

  • Budget Predictability

    Makes healthcare expenses easier to plan for.

  • Nationwide Access

    Original Medicare generally allows access to providers nationwide that accept Medicare.

Part D Drug Coverage

Understanding Medicare Part D

Before choosing a drug plan, it’s important to understand how coverage works.

Does every Part D plan cover the same drugs?

No. Each plan has its own formulary (covered drug list). 

Yes, during eligible enrollment periods.

You may face a late enrollment penalty if you go without creditable prescription drug coverage for too long.

Yes. Drug costs and formularies can change annually.

Common Medicare Supplement Plans

Medigap plans are standardized, meaning benefits for the same plan letter are generally consistent regardless of insurer.

Medigap Plan

Plan N

Lower premiums with some cost-sharing.

Medical prescription

Plan G

Comprehensive coverage and one of the most popular options.

Female Doctor with Clipboard Listening to Patient and Writing down Her Health Complaints

High-Deductible Plan G

Lower monthly premiums in exchange for a higher deductible.

When Should You Apply?

Timing matters when enrolling in Medicare Supplement and Part D coverage.

65th Birthday → Medicare Eligibility

Enroll in Parts A & B

Medigap Open Enrollment Period

Enroll in Part D Drug Coverage

The best time to purchase a Medicare Supplement plan is typically during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period when acceptance is often easier.

Before Choosing a Plan

Use this checklist to prepare for comparing coverage options.

  • Current medications list

  • Preferred pharmacy information

  • Current doctors and specialists

  • Monthly healthcare budget

  • Existing insurance coverage

  • Travel needs and healthcare preferences

Find the Right Medicare Supplement & Drug Coverage

Every Medicare beneficiary has unique healthcare and prescription needs. Compare your options and receive personalized guidance to help choose coverage that fits your situation.