Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers a lot, but it doesn’t cover everything. Secondary insurance steps in to fill the gaps — paying for deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, and other out-of-pocket costs that can otherwise drain your savings. Whether you’re a newly eligible senior or someone who’s been enrolled for years, getting the right secondary coverage is critical to protecting your financial future.
At Maple Valley Insurance Group, we specialize in helping Kalamazoo and nearby Southwest Michigan residents find the best secondary insurance for Medicare. That means clear advice, real options, and local service — no high-pressure sales, just honest help.
Why You Need Secondary Insurance
Medicare Part A and B typically cover hospital stays, doctor visits, and some outpatient services. But these benefits come with out-of-pocket costs that add up quickly:
- Medicare Part A deductible: $1,632 per benefit period (2025)
- Medicare Part B deductible: $226 annually (2025)
- Coinsurance and copays: Vary by service; can be 20% or more
- No coverage for many routine or preventive services: Like dental, vision, hearing, or long-term care
Without secondary insurance, you’re on the hook for these costs — and a single hospital stay or emergency could leave you with thousands of dollars to pay.
Your Options for Secondary Insurance in Kalamazoo
1. Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)
The classic choice for most seniors with Original Medicare. Medigap plans fill specific gaps in Medicare coverage and offer predictable out-of-pocket costs. You pay a monthly premium to a private insurer, and in return, your deductibles, copays, and coinsurance get covered according to the plan you choose.
- Covers things Medicare doesn’t (like foreign travel emergencies)
- Guaranteed renewable for life if you pay premiums
- Standardized plans (Plan A through N) make comparison easier
2. Indemnity Plans
Unlike Medigap, indemnity plans pay you a fixed cash amount when you have a qualifying medical event. You decide how to spend it—medical bills, transportation, home care, or even groceries if illness keeps you home.
- More flexible and customizable
- Often lower monthly premiums than Medigap
- Good for people on a tighter budget or with specific lifestyle needs
3. Employer or Union Coverage
If you’re still working or retired from a company with retiree health benefits, you might have secondary coverage through your employer or union. These plans vary widely but often pay after Medicare does.
4. Medicaid as Secondary
For those who qualify, Medicaid can act as a powerful secondary insurance option, covering costs Medicare doesn’t. Eligibility is income-based and varies by state.
How Secondary Insurance Saves You Money: Real-World Examples
- Hospital Stay: Without secondary coverage, you pay the full Part A deductible ($1,632). A Medigap Plan F or G could cover that entire cost.
- Doctor Visit: Medicare Part B covers 80%, leaving you responsible for 20%. Indemnity plans can pay a cash benefit to offset that 20%.
- Prescription Costs: Secondary plans don’t usually cover drugs, but pairing with a Medicare Part D plan rounds out your coverage.
Is Secondary Insurance Right for You?
Not everyone needs it. Here are some cases where skipping secondary insurance might make sense:
- You have limited income and qualify for Medicaid
- You have employer-sponsored coverage that supplements Medicare
- You’re financially comfortable paying out-of-pocket costs occasionally
But for most people, a secondary plan reduces financial risk and provides peace of mind.
Local Service, Trusted Guidance in Kalamazoo and Southwest Michigan
Choosing the right Medicare secondary insurance is confusing and important. That’s why working with a local expert who knows the Kalamazoo market matters. At Maple Valley Insurance Group, we don’t just sell policies — we educate you about your options and help you find the best fit for your health and budget.
We serve Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, Vicksburg, Plainwell, Otsego, and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between Medigap and indemnity plans?
Medigap pays your medical providers directly to cover gaps, while indemnity plans pay you fixed cash benefits to use as you choose.
Can I switch secondary insurance plans anytime?
Medigap plans are best purchased during your Open Enrollment Period. Indemnity plans often allow enrollment year-round.
Will secondary insurance cover my prescription drugs?
No. You’ll need a separate Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.
How much does secondary insurance cost in Kalamazoo?
Costs vary by plan type, your age, health, and insurance carrier. We provide free quotes and comparisons tailored to you.
Ready to Protect Your Health and Finances?
Call Maple Valley Insurance Group today at 269-244-3420 or schedule your free Medicare review. No pressure, just expert answers from local pros you can trust.