A Medicare supplement insurance picks up the balance that Medicare doesn't pay. Your Medicare will only pay 80% of your medical epenses and your supplemental insurance will pay for the remaining 20%. If you already have a supplement insurance that pays the same way as Medicare, you might need to read your policy again. There's probably an out-of-pocket maimum threshold. Once you know the amount, divide the amount by 12 months and then add the amount you pay for your monthly premiums. If you've already paid the amount, specified as out of pocket maimum,' this secondary plan will pay everything at 100% for the remainder of the year. There are also other standardized Medicare supplement plan designs (Plans A to L) you can choose from that are available in all states. Some of these will get you coverage that can pay for your Medicare co-insurance and deductibles. If you already have another health insurance plan, check if this covers what Medicare doesn't. If this other plan does, then it might not be necessary to get a Medicare supplement policy. You should contact an agent in your area that specializes in Medicare supplement plans. He can provide you with other details that you might need to cover for your healthcare needs. -- June 11, 2009 @ 9:09 pm'