Medigap Policies for the Disabled in Washington State

You must be on Social Security disability for two years before you qualify for Medicare. Medicare part A covers hospitalization. Medicare part B covers doctor visits. Both parts leave gaps, so it's important to consider your Medigap options and choose a plan that meets your medical and financial needs.

Medicare Savings Programs

• Depending on your income and assets, you may qualify to be a qualified Medicare beneficiary (QMB) or a specified low-income Medicare beneficiary (SLMB). These plans help pay your part B premiums, part A hospitalization coinsurance and part B deductible. The threshold to qualify varies from year to year. You can find more information from your local Area Agency on Aging.

Medicare Advantage Plans

• Medicare Advantage plans combine gap insurance with a prescription plan. Normally these plans have a network of providers with which you are required to work. You can contact the Office of the Insurance Commissioner to determine which plans are available in your region.

Medigap Plans

• Unfortunately, you may not qualify for a Medigap, also known as a Medicare supplement plan, until you reach age 65. If you apply for a Medigap and are turned down, you can apply to the Washington State Health Insurance Pool (WSHIP) for coverage if you do not live in an area with an adequate number of Medicare Advantage plans.