Guide to Oklahoma Medicare Supplement Plans for 2021

When comparing Oklahoma Medicare Supplement plans, it’s essential to remember that regardless of the carrier, the letter plan benefits will be the same. The only difference is what the provider charges in monthly premiums. For example, Plan N in Norman may differ in cost from Plan N in Lawton.

Since Medicare Supplements are standardized by the federal government, the best Medigap plans available in Oklahoma are not any different than the best plans available in the other states offering the same plans. You can technically enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan in Oklahoma at any time, as long as you have Part A and Part B. However, the best time to enroll is during your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period so you don’t have to go through underwriting.

Additionally, Oklahoma offers guaranteed issue if your employer-sponsored plan’s benefits are substantially reduced. This means that you can enroll in the plan of your choice without the need to go through underwriting, like during your Open Enrollment Period.

Oklahoma requires insurance companies to offer at least one Medicare Supplement option to disabled beneficiaries under age 65. However, it’s often more expensive to enroll in a Medigap plan when you’re under 65. Therefore, it might be more beneficial to enroll in an Advantage plan and switch to Medigap during your second Initial Enrollment Period when you turn 65.

Your Medicare Supplement premium depends on multiple factors. Thus, what you pay for the same plan each month might not be the same as what your neighbor down the street pays. Additionally, most Medigap plans in Oklahoma are attained-age rated, meaning your premiums are based on your current age each year.

The good news is that Oklahoma is not one of the most expensive states for Medigap. For example, Plan G for a 65-year-old female is around $111.38 per month. When you consider what that amount can save you in medical bills down the road, it makes financial sense.

It’s best to enroll in prescription drug coverage sooner than later. Otherwise, you might have to pay a penalty. Part D prescription drug coverage is available for Oklahoma Medicare beneficiaries.

There are several Part D plans obtainable in the state, starting with premiums as low as $7.80 per month. However, the policy with the lowest monthly premium doesn’t always make the most economic sense. This is because the plans with lower premiums tend to have higher deductibles. For example, the least expensive plan we mentioned has a $445.00 annual deductible.

Yet, the most expensive plan per month, with a premium of $93.70, also has a $445.00 annual deductible. So, before enrolling in a Part D plan, make sure you know all of the associated costs.

If you have a lower income and struggle with your Medicare costs, you could possibly qualify for a Medicare Savings Program. When you qualify for an MSP, you’re also eligible for Extra Help paying for your prescription drugs. Even if you don’t qualify for an MSP, you might still be eligible for the Extra Help program.

Oklahoma’s State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) is offered through the Medicare Assistance Program (MAP). This organization provides counseling services to Medicare beneficiaries. These services can especially help during the Annual Enrollment Period.