Medigap Plan G Or Plan N: Whats The Difference?

Published: Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at 4:07 pm

Medicare Plan G vs. Plan N: A Comparison for New Beneficiaries

Navigating the complexities of Medicare can be daunting, especially for new beneficiaries. Among the many choices, understanding the differences between Medigap Plan G and Plan N is crucial. These plans, standardized by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), offer supplemental coverage to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B).

Medigap plans help cover costs not paid by Medicare, such as deductibles, coinsurance, and potentially, foreign travel emergency coverage. The plans are categorized by letters, with each letter representing a different package of benefits.

Plan G has emerged as the most popular choice, covering nine of the ten standardized benefits. After meeting the annual Part B deductible, Plan G enrollees face no further out-of-pocket costs for medical care from providers who accept Medicare assignment.

Plan N, while less popular, offers a lower monthly premium. However, it comes with some key differences. Like Plan G, Plan N does not cover the Part B deductible. It includes copayments for some office visits ($20) and emergency room visits that do not result in hospitalization ($50). Furthermore, Plan N does not cover Part B excess charges, which can be applied by non-participating providers, potentially increasing out-of-pocket expenses.

The monthly premium for Plan N is typically lower than Plan G, with savings ranging from $30 to $80, depending on location. However, the choice between the two plans depends on individual needs and circumstances. Factors to consider include the frequency of physician visits, the potential for excess charges from specialists, and the importance of predictable healthcare costs.

BNN's Perspective:

Choosing between Plan G and Plan N requires careful consideration of individual healthcare needs and financial priorities. While Plan N offers a lower premium, the potential for copayments and the lack of coverage for excess charges may make Plan G a more cost-effective option for those who frequently visit specialists or prefer predictable healthcare expenses. It's essential to weigh the potential savings against the potential for higher out-of-pocket costs.

Keywords: Medicare, Medigap, Plan G, Plan N, benefits, premiums, coverage, Part B deductible, excess charges, copayments, healthcare costs, beneficiaries, CMS, insurance

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