BluAngel, are you eliglible for any of the Medicare Supplement Plans or are you restricted because of your age to only certain ones?
"The supplement plans are standardized by the Federal Government. They are lettered A,B,C,D,F,G,K,L,M & N. No matter what company you go to, a plan with the same letter designation will offer the exact same benefits. While the benefits are the same, prices can vary widely." This came from a beginner's guide to Medicare written by my agent who sells for several different companies in TX. It also says that not every company offers every plan. I think there is one or two letter plans they must offer, then others as they choose. I chose Plan G. It covers everything after a $147 deductible for a lower premium than some other plans. I noticed that the company that advertises the most locally does not offer Plan G. I chose to get it from Omaha Ins. Co.
You are in TN, right? I just looked and found a site in TN that asks for your zip code and says they will then tell you what's available there. It says some of the same things I quoted. I hope it will show you a comparison of all those plans-that makes it more clear. I've just gone through this and found it all exasperating.
Here's the link: http://www.planprescriber.com/medicare-tennessee/medigap/
Then after you make that decision you will still need Part D Drug coverage. That's where the Medicare.gov site has been the most helpful to see what is offered in my zip code. Or perhaps that same site has Drug Coverage information for you also.
You have my very best wishes in finding just what works for you!!