1.   Before HMOs came along, seniors who wanted coverage for such unpaid costs had to buy supplemental insurance, or Medigap policies.

2.   But are we, the public, frustrated enough to agree to raise taxes or to use some of our wages to buy supplemental insurance?

3.   But, say opponents of adding the drug benefit, many beneficiaries already have private supplemental insurance to cover drug therapy expenses.

4.   However, in these instances, the retiree is notified of the change and can buy supplemental insurance.

5.   It is advised, although not mandatory, to buy supplemental insurance if you are going into Mexico.

6.   Medex Gold, like other so-called medigap supplemental insurance, helps pay medical bills not covered by Medicare, the federal health insurance program for seniors and disabled citizens.

7.   Medicare, the federal program for the elderly and disabled, does not cover prescription drugs, although beneficiaries can buy supplemental insurance for medication needs.

8.   One feature would provide better information for Medicare recipients, reminding them that they are not covered for long-term care unless they buy supplemental insurance.

9.   Road insurance does not apply here and, of course, no supplemental insurance can be bought at the track.

10.   Seniors can get drug coverage with supplemental insurance, but those policies are too expensive for many.