What must benefits provided by a Medicare Supplement policy not do?

Benefits provided by a Medicare Supplement policy must not duplicate Medicare benefits. Medicare Supplement insurance, also known as Medigap, is designed to fill the gaps left by Original Medicare (Parts A and B), such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. The intent is to provide additional coverage that complements Medicare, not to replicate the same benefits that Medicare already provides.

By not duplicating benefits, Medicare Supplement policies help ensure that beneficiaries receive the intended additional financial protection without unnecessary overlap, which could confuse consumers or lead to excess costs. This design is essential to maintain the integrity of both Medicare and Medigap policies, ensuring that beneficiaries gain maximum value and clarity in their healthcare coverage.

The other choices refer to guidelines and features that govern how Medicare Supplement policies work but do not capture the primary restriction as effectively as the correct answer. For instance, while a policy may not exceed Medicare limits, the primary focus of a Medigap policy is on filling in the gaps rather than exceeding coverage. Income-based adjustments are not typical features of these policies, as they are designed to offer standardized benefits regardless of income. Lastly, non-medical services fall outside the remit of what Medigap policies can offer, as they are focused solely on medical expenses