Supplemental health insurance is coverage you buy to supplement the benefits of your primary health plan. These policies can provide coverage for certain kinds of medical treatment (e.g., dental or vision insurance) or for specific illnesses (e.g., cancer, critical illness), accidents and injuries, hospitalization, disability, life insurance, and other coverage.
Supplemental health insurance policies are different from traditional health insurance plans such as those you might purchase through the Health Insurance Marketplace (public exchange) or your employer.
You can buy supplemental health insurance in a variety of ways, including but not limited to buying it through your financial institution, credit card issuer, motor club (e.g., AAA), or through a broker. Many employers also make supplemental health insurance available on a payroll deduction or direct-pay basis, so employees can tailor their insurance to their personal or family needs.
Supplemental health insurance is not to be confused with Medicare Supplement Plans, which are specifically designed for persons over age 65 who are on or eligible for Medicare. These plans are often referred to as Medigap policies.