Frequently Asked Questions About the National Medicare Supplement Plan

Basically, Medicare Supplement insurance fills the "gaps" in Medicare coverage by paying for most, if not all, Medicare coinsurance amounts and provides coverage for Medicare's deductibles. Typically, these plans also provide benefits for services not covered by Medicare, such as foreign travel emergency coverage.

No. BCBSNM Medicare Supplement coverage gives you the freedom to use any physician and any hospital that accepts Medicare. You don't need a referral from one doctor to see another.

You must be enrolled in both Part A and Part B of Medicare to be eligible for this National Medicare Supplement coverage, which is offered to eligible retirees of Los Alamos National Laboratory and to their Medicare-eligible dependents. Also, you may not enroll in Medicare Part D (which covers prescription drugs) and be covered under the National Medicare Supplement Plan. If you or your dependent does not have both Parts A and B of Medicare, the eligible person without Medicare may enroll in the other BCBSNM health plans offered to retirees without Medicare.

You may continue to see your own doctor if he/she is a Medicare provider. The Medicare Supplement Plan is convenient and flexible, giving you freedom of choice.

Yes. Just remember that your out-of-pocket costs will be less if you choose a physician who accepts Medicare assignment.

Yes. We understand that you may need medical care when you travel, and that's the purpose of dependable coverage with Medicare Supplement insurance. Your BCBSNM ID card is recognized and accepted by doctors, hospitals, and other facilities nationwide.

Check with your group plan administrator. You may be able to choose either your group plan or Medicare plus Medicare Supplement coverage.

Medicare Supplement is designed so that you generally do not need other similar coverage.

Your coverage includes Medicare-covered services for Part A and Part B, as well as other benefits not covered by Medicare such as preventive services, hearing and vision exams, and care outside Medicare territorial limits. See Benefits Information to learn more about covered services.