Is Medicare supplemental insurance worth it?

When I read that someone "heard" or "read" or "was told" by someone, I always wonder about the quality and veracity of that kind of information.

You need to analyze your own needs; before I made a supplemental plan selection I did a cost and break-even analysis - long, tedious and time consuming, but I selected a plan which has worked out well for us.

If you don't mind making the co-pays, then don't consider supplemental insurance. But if you have a catastrophic illness, hospitalization or long term care requirement, that decision will hurt you, right in your pocketbook.

I can't imagine anyone old enough for Medicare gambling on not having some costly medical needs at one time or another.

I know I wouldn't be without secondary insurance that helps pay the 20% that Medicare doesn't pay.

A hospital stay could run into the 10's of thousands, imagine paying what Medicare doesn't cover out of pocket. Even lab work now a days is over $500 for a complete panel. Secondary picks up what Medicare won't cover.

Having a DNA test is around $4k, and now a days DNA testing is done to help doctors know which medicine is right for you without a lot of experimenting. If Medicare won't pay for it, then secondary will help with some of the cost.

Don't confuse Medicare Supplement with Medicare Advantage. Big difference.

One thing to consider is that if you purchase a supplemental plan as soon as you qualify for Medicare, you do not need to pass medical underwriting. If you wait beyond three months, most insurance companies require this. If you have an underlying medical condition, or develop one, you may have trouble passing. I wanted to switch my mom to a less expensive plan a few years ago, and could not because her dementia disqualified her.

Thanks to all for your responses. I did sign up for a Supplemental plan (not an Advantage one) & think I'll keep it -- just in case!

The answer depends on you own circumstances. Some people are healthy as horses, so paying for a supplement may cost more than they are willing to pay. However, if cancer or a heart condition does strike, the OOP costs will be high. You have to figure what type of risk you are willing to take, because these supplements are not cheap. If your medical bills are high, though, the supplements are a very good deal. Someone with high health risks may also want to look at Medicare Part F. I have a friend with chronic and serious health problems who says without Part F it would have been devastating for him and his wife.