Medicare Supplement plans are a popular health insurance option for seniors.  These plans are designed to fill the gaps in Medicare coverage, helping to cover costs that Medicare Parts A and B do not, such as  copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.

However, the traditional Medigap plans are not the only option available. Some insurance companies now offer Medicare Supplement products that incorporate innovative benefits.  These plans let seniors enjoy the dependability of traditional Medicare Supplement plans while receiving additional health and wellness benefits.

This blog will give you an overview of the regulation governing Innovative Benefits and provide some background on the types of Innovative Benefits available today.

NAIC Model Law 651: Medicare Supplement Insurance Minimum Standards

Most states have adopted a version of the NAIC’s Model Law 651 that specifies the minimum standards companies must meet to offer Medicare Supplement plans.  This model law provides a consistent framework for the design, implementation, and regulation of Medicare Supplement plans across the U.S. Sections 9 and 9.1. include guidelines that permit insurers to add “New or Innovative Benefits” to the standard set of benefit packages.

As specified in the regulation, New and Innovative Benefits are required to:

1.     Be appropriate to Medicare Supplement insurance.

2.     Be new or innovative, not otherwise available, and cost-effective.

3.     Not adversely impact the goal of Medicare Supplement simplification.

4.   Not be used to change or reduce benefits, including any cost-sharing provision.

Under these sections of Model Law 651, insurers can introduce creative services—such as telemedicine, wellness programs, and nurse hotlines — while still adhering to the structure that ensures reliability and accountability.

Innovative Benefits in Medicare Supplement Plans

In today’s competitive healthcare landscape, Medicare Supplement insurers have begun to add a range of extra services to attract seniors looking for more comprehensive coverage. These added benefits aim to promote well-being, improve care coordination, and reduce out-of-pocket costs. Here are some of the innovative benefits that can now be found in Medicare Supplement products:

1. Telemedicine Services

The COVID-19 pandemic brought telemedicine to the forefront of healthcare, and its continued popularity has influenced many insurance companies to include telehealth services as part of their Medicare Supplement offerings. With telemedicine, seniors can access healthcare professionals remotely, which is especially beneficial for those with mobility issues or living in rural areas where access to specialists may be limited. Telehealth can help seniors manage chronic conditions, receive prescription refills, or even seek advice for non-emergency health concerns—all from the comfort of their own home.

2. Gym Memberships and Wellness Programs

Maintaining an active lifestyle is critical for seniors in preventing chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. To support this, some Medicare Supplement products offer discounts or full coverage for gym memberships, fitness programs, or wellness initiatives that focus on exercise, nutrition, and overall health. These programs often feature specialized classes designed for older adults, helping them stay mobile and healthy.

3. Nurse and Health Coach Hotlines

Some Medicare Supplement products now include 24/7 nurse hotlines, giving seniors access to medical advice and guidance at any time of day. Additionally, health coach programs can help seniors manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or hypertension by offering tailored advice on lifestyle changes, diet, and exercise routines. These services can lead to better health outcomes and fewer emergency visits.

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