South Carolina Medicare Supplement plans are similar to Medigap plans in other states. Since Medicare is a federal program, many states have nearly identical guidelines.

We’re going to take a look at the cost of supplemental insurance in South Carolina and help you find a policy. We’ll even discuss common questions about Medigap in this state.

South Carolina Medicare Supplement Rates

Medigap in Columbia, SC costs different than a Medicare Supplement in Hilton Head, SC. Location, age, and tobacco use are all factors in cost.

Most of the policies in South Carolina are attained age rated. So, they are cheaper when you buy at age 65, but prices increase with age.

South Carolina MedicareSELECT Plans

MedicareSELECT plans are an option for those looking for the superior benefits of Medigap at a more affordable rate. These plans have a network of providers you need to use to get the policy to pay its share.

The big difference between MedigapSELECT and advantage plans is the ability to use Medicare without using plan coverage when out of network. So, instead of paying 100%, you only pay 20% when the doctor takes Original Medicare.

For those on a select plan, if you decide the policy isn’t good enough, at any time, you can return to a regular Medigap plan sold by the same company. The new selection must be equal or lesser coverage than the current policy.

Medicare Advantage Plans in South Carolina

Location is HUGE; the first thing you need to know when searching for a Medicare Advantage plan is the zip code.

Medicare Advantage is full of changes; if you want consistent coverage, a Medigap plan could be more suitable. However, if you can’t afford Medigap coverage, advantage plans are an option.

According to KFF, over 27% of South Carolina residents enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan in 2019.

Some coverage is always better than no coverage!

There are plenty of $0 plans to choose from throughout South Carolina; but, not all areas offer the same policies or $0 options.

When choosing an Advantage plan, you want to select a policy with good ratings, large doctor networks, and excellent customer service. Unfortunately, there are no 5-star Advantage plans in the state of South Carolina.

Choosing Wisely

Aetna has a Premier Plan with a $0 Premium, and it’s a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO). For those with essential doctors, they don’t want to change; the PPO lets you go outside the plan network at a higher out of pocket cost.

The Aetna Plan has a 4.5-star rating, but the copayments could seriously add up for those with a budget. Outside the network, it’s $50 for the doctor and $60 for a specialist.

If you can stay in-network, the copay is only $5 for the doctor and $40 for the specialist.

The “out of network” copay difference might not seem that big; but, if you need a wheelchair and the supplier is out of network you can expect to pay 45% of the cost. The costs here are higher than if you only have Medicare.

Of course, this is for Richland County; those in other counties could pay a slightly different amount.

TIP: The best plan for your neighbor likely isn’t the most suitable option for you.

The Benefits

The plan does include Part D and routine vision. What makes this policy better than Medicare is the Maximum Out of Pocket.

On this policy, the annual maximum is $5,900. So, the most you could spend out is $5,900 a year.

The thing is, Medicare doesn’t have a max, so if you have a medical disaster, you could end up paying tens of thousands of dollars.

Medicare Part D South Carolina

Those with a Medigap policy need a stand-alone Part D. But, most people with Advantage plans have Part D rolled into the coverage.

For those with a few generics, the Humana Walmart Value Rx Plan is less than $15, and the deductible only applies to brand name medications.

For Betty, she takes a plethora of meds, so having a quality Part D policy is crucial to her.

Betty found that the Cigna plan with a $55 premium and $100 deductible made the most sense for her; but, the best policy for her isn’t necessarily the best plan for you.

Medicare Q&As in South Carolina

Can I get a Medicare Supplement Plan if I’m under 65 in South Carolina?

Currently, those under 65 can get coverage through the South Carolina Health Insurance Pool (SCHIP). The only two plans available Plan A and Plan C. Both cost OVER $900 a month for those under 65.

Those on Medicare due to disability could find a reduction in financial burden by choosing a Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plan.

There are some counties in South Carolina with this option, including a Diabetes and Heart policy with Humana in Greenville County and Anderson County. Then, United Healthcare has a Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan available in over 50 South Carolina counties!

These are great options for those on disability and looking for extra coverage.

Who is Eligible for Medicare in South Carolina?

South Carolina Medicare is available to citizens and permanent residents of at least five consecutive years age 65 or older. Some people qualify due to disability or End-Stage Renal Disease.

To apply, contact Social Security. You can apply online, over the phone, or in the local Social Security office.

Which Medicare Insurance Plans Offer SilverSneakers in South Carolina?

Aetna, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare have Medicare Advantage plans that include SilverSneakers or offer it as an add-on benefit. While SilverSneakers isn’t available with all policies, there are other options.

Anyone who enrolls in coverage through our company will get a link to join in Active and Fit. With the Active & Fit program, you get access to thousands of gyms across the nation, over 800 on-demand workouts, and no long-term contracts.

Compare Medicare Supplement Plans in South Carolina

Do you find this information overwhelming? Perhaps you still feel unsure of the type of policy you want or need?

Don’t worry; our agents are here to walk you through EVERYTHING! We help people just like you every day find their policy match, let us help you too!

It’s simple, call the number above today, and you’ll be on the phone with an expert. Our agents can answer your questions and guide you through enrollment.

Then, once you have an active policy through our company, any time you have a question or concern, our client care team is a phone call away!

For those on a tight schedule or reading this late at night, fill out an online rate form and an agent will contact you about your best options.