Another type of Medicare supplement plan is called Medicare SELECT. Private insurance companies sell SELECT policies. A SELECT policy is one of the standard 10 supplemental policies, but it uses specific hospitals only, and in some cases, specific doctors. The advantage to a SELECT plan is the premiums can be lower.

Each plan includes what are called Basic Benefits. Basic benefits are:

• Hospitalization: Part A coinsurance plus coverage for 365 additional days after Medicare benefits end.
• Medical Expenses: Part B coinsurance (generally 20% of Medicare-approved expenses).
• Blood: First 3 pints of blood each year. For example, if you buy a type A supplement policy, the only extra protection you are buying is the basic benefit. However, if you buy a type E policy, you also get coverage for skilled nursing, the Part A hospital deductible, medical care out of the country, and preventive care.

  The Medicare Plan Search enables you to find more information about the health plan choices available where you live by entering your zip code and state.

  After you find out what plans are available to you, you can get more detailed information about the plans by calling either of the health plan directly or your State Health Insurance Counseling Program.

  Before choosing a Medicare supplement plan, talk with a family member, a friend, or your doctor about health plan choices before making a final decision. They may have important information that can help you decide. You can call your State Health Insurance Counseling Program for assistance (look in your local phone book).