Medigap plans are health insurance plans that cover gaps in Medicare plans such as deductibles, co-payments, and health care when you travel abroad. There are 10 Medigap plans that are lettered from A to N, and each covers a different set of gaps. While some Medigap plans charge higher premiums offering more coverage, there are others that offer lower premiums if you agree to pay for some of the gaps out of your pocket.
Medigap Plans F and G are more popular and fast selling as they cover all and most gaps in Medicare, respectively. Medicare plans E, H, I, and J are not available to new subscribers anymore. If you are planning to purchase a Medigap plan, below is a comparison to help you make an informed choice.
Medigap Plan A
This is the most basic Medigap plan that covers the 20% that Medicare doesn’t pay for outpatient treatments.
Medigap Plan B
Medigap Plan B covers all the benefits that Plan A covers, in addition to the Medicare Part B hospital deductible.
Medicare Plan C
Medicare Plan C covers the benefits provided by Plans A and B. It is extremely comprehensive. However, this plan does not cover Medicare excess charges.
Medicare Plan D
This plan covers most benefits except the hospital deductibles covered by Part B and the Medicare excess charges. This constitutes one of the least popular Medigap plans.
Medicare Plan F
This plan covers all the gaps in Medicare and leaves you with no out-of-pocket costs for services. This is the most popular Medigap plan.
Medicare Plan G
This plan covers everything other than the Part B hospital deductible. It’s fast gaining popularity as premium rates are very competitive.
Medicare Plans K, L, and M
They offer only a partial coverage for certain benefits and are, therefore, not opted by most individuals.
Medicare Plan N
This plan offers a low premium rate in exchange for paying copays for doctor and emergency room visits, in addition to not covering Medicare excess charges.