What determines if Mrs. Paterson is eligible for Medigap benefits?

The eligibility for Medigap benefits primarily hinges on an individual being continuously enrolled in Original Medicare, which comprises Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). Medigap policies are designed to supplement Original Medicare by covering costs that Medicare does not, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Therefore, without enrollment in both parts of Medicare, an individual cannot obtain a Medigap plan, as these plans are specifically tailored for those who have Original Medicare coverage.

Enrollment continuity is also crucial; if Mrs. Paterson were to lapse in her Medicare coverage, her eligibility for a Medigap plan could be compromised. Additionally, while factors such as age and state availability play a role in the broader context of Medigap insurance, the core requirement remains the need for continuous enrollment in Original Medicare itself for one to be eligible for Medigap benefits. This means that regardless of the specifics of a given state's offerings or Mrs. Paterson's age, she must maintain her Original Medicare enrollment status to qualify for Medigap.