Filling the Gaps of Original Medicare with Standardized Plans
The Financial Risk of Original Medicare
Original Medicare Part B pays only 80% of approved medical fees, leaving you responsible for the remaining 20% coinsurance with no annual ceiling. A major surgery, chemotherapy regimen, or cardiac event could leave you with tens of thousands in medical bills. Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) is designed specifically to pay these out-of-pocket costs.
Medigap Plan G vs. Medigap Plan N
- Medigap Plan G (The Most Comprehensive Plan): Covers 100% of the Part A hospital deductible, skilled nursing coinsurance, foreign travel emergencies, and Part B excess charges. Your only out-of-pocket medical obligation is the annual Part B deductible ($240-$257).
- Medigap Plan N (The Budget-Smart Alternative): Offers lower monthly premiums than Plan G. In exchange, you pay up to a $20 copay for office visits and up to $50 for emergency room visits that do not lead to inpatient admission, and it does not cover Part B excess charges.
- Nationwide Doctor Freedom: Zero network restrictions. You can visit any physician, clinic, or medical center in all 50 US states that accepts Medicare (over 90% of doctors).
The 6-Month Medigap Open Enrollment Window
Under federal CMS rules, you have a one-time 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period starting the first day of the month you are 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. Insurers cannot deny coverage or charge higher premiums for pre-existing medical conditions during this window.
