RICHMOND – Whether you are currently receiving Medicare benefits, or will soon be eligible for Medicare, or are helping your parents make decisions about their Medicare coverage, the 2003 Virginia Medicare Supplement Insurance Premium Comparison Guide provides basic information you need to know about Medicare and private insurance plans designed to supplement Medicare.

     This free publication from the State Corporation Commission’s Bureau of Insurance contains prices charged by more than 30 companies writing Medicare supplement (also known as Medigap) insurance in Virginia. It also includes the companies’ telephone numbers, most of which are toll-free, and Internet website addresses at which these companies may be contacted.

     Because Medicare Supplement rates vary widely, the Bureau of Insurance recommends that consumers compare prices before making a decision. The Premium Comparison Guide helps to make this task much easier.

     Consumers can request free individual copies of the Premium Comparison Guide by calling the Bureau of Insurance toll-free at 1-877-310-6560 (in the Richmond metropolitan area dial 371-9092). You may also visit our website at www.state.va.us/scc/division/boi. On our website, you will find the current Medigap rates for the companies included in this publication, updated on line as they are approved in Virginia. You will also find other valuable information for the consumer.

     The Bureau of Insurance also offers free consumer outreach programs on a number of insurance topics. Speakers will talk to your group or organization on the insurance topic you choose, and will answer any general questions you have about insurance. For more information, please refer to the above referenced phone numbers or contact the Bureau’s Life and Health Insurance Outreach Coordinator, Olivia B. Claud at (804) 371-9389 or email L&Houtreach@scc.state.va.us.