Accession Number:

ADA399671

Title:

Medigap: Current Policies Contain Coverage Gaps, Undermine Cost Control Incentives

Descriptive Note:

Congressional testimony

Corporate Author:

GENERAL ACCOUNTING OFFICE WASHINGTON DC

Personal Author(s):

• Scanlon, William J.

Report Date:

2002-03-14

Pagination or Media Count:

15.0

Abstract:

Individuals who are eligible for Medicare automatically receive Hospital Insurance HI, known as part A, which helps pay for inpatient hospital, skilled nursing facility, hospice, and certain home health care services. Beneficiaries pay no premium for this coverage but are liable for required deductible, coinsurance, and copayment amounts. See table 1. Medicare- eligible beneficiaries may elect to purchase Supplementary Medical Insurance SMI, known as part B, which helps pay for selected physician, outpatient hospital, laboratory, and other services. Beneficiaries must pay a premium for part B coverage, currently 54 per month. Beneficiaries are also responsible for part B deductibles and coinsurance.

Descriptors:

• *MEDICAL SERVICES
• *HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT
• POLICIES
• PATIENTS
• HEALTH CARE FACILITIES
• INSURANCE
• MEDICARE
• PAYMENT

Subject Categories:

• Administration and Management
• Medicine and Medical Research

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE