Welcome to Medi-CareFirst.com!

I’m new to Medicare > Learn About Medicare

Why You May Need More than Medicare

What Medicare Pays

Medicare typically pays only 80% of the medical services it covers. That leaves 20% - plus copays - for you to pay.

  • 20% of even a routine procedure can add up in a big way
  • Even with Medicare coverage, a single day in the hospital can cost you more than $1,130*
  • Under Medicare, you're responsible for deductibles and copays, both of which go up every year

*Imagine how an extended stay would begin to add up. A 90-day hospital stay could cost you more than $9,600.

How Medigap Can Help

Medigap plans fill in gaps left by Medicare - covering your deductibles, copays, and/or coinsurance. Some Medigap plans also cover medical services that aren't covered by Original Medicare.

What is NOT covered by Original Medicare
Part A – Hospital Services
$1,156 inpatient hospital deductible
$289 a day copayment for hospital days 61-90
$578 a day copayment for hospital days 91-150 (Lifetime Reserve Days)
Beneficiary is responsible for all costs for each day of a stay beyond 150 days
First 3 pints of blood
$144.50 a day for days 21-100 in a skilled nursing facility
Part B – Outpatient Services
$140 Part B deductible
20% of outpatient charges
100% of charges over Medicare's allowed amount
Other Expenses
Medically necessary emergency care received in a foreign country

Plan Resources

Additional Information

  • Enrolling in a Part D plan does not replace your need for Medicare or your current Medigap plan.
  • Medigap plans are offered through our affiliate, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield.
  • Sign up when you become eligible or you may have to pay a penalty.
  • For more information, visit Medicare.gov.
Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program

We administer Maryland's SPDAP program

Find out what it is and if you're eligible.