So you like Medigap Coverage- Here’s More to Know:

You’ve decided to go to the Medicare Supplement (Medigap) route to supplement the health insurance coverage you have through Medicare Parts A and B, but you’re not quite sure which plan is right for you. 

There are ten different Medicare Supplement plans, but my years of experience in working with people in Medicare planning tells me most people choose either Plan F or Plan G. (These are by FAR the most purchased plans in my experience.) I call Plan F the “Cadillac Plan.” That’s because it fills all the gaps in Medicare coverage, but Plan G is not much different. 

The important differences between the companies are rating, cost, experience, and we’re just comparing Plan F and Plan G, and as you can see there’s only one difference, and that is the Part B deductible. Plan F pays that deductible and Plan G does not. 

This brings us to the value question or “Do I want to write a check a couple times per year if I go to the docs?” question. If the answer is you don’t mind a small annual deductible, then you choose Plan G. If you’re tired of paying bills and just want to be done with it, you should choose Plan F. 

It is worth noting that as of 2020 Plan F will no longer be available to new beneficiaries and will likely continue to increase in cost over time. If you already have Plan F prior to 2020 you will be able to keep your coverage. If you joined Medicare before June 1st, 2020 you can still buy Plan F. 

Now let's discuss a quick rundown comparing Medicare Supplement Plan F and G. 

What is Plan F?

Medicare Supplements Plan F provides a person with coverage for some parts of healthcare not covered by original Medicare. 

However, eligibility rules changed in January 2020, and Plan F is no longer available to a new enrollee in Medicare. 

If someone was eligible for Medicare Part A before 2019 but did not enroll, then they may still be eligible to enroll in Plan F. A person can check the start date on their Medicare card. Also, if a person already has Plan F, they can keep it. 

What is Plan G?

Medicare Supplements Plan G provides a person with coverage for some parts of healthcare not covered by original Medicare. However, Plan G does not cover the Medicare Part B deductible, which is $240 in 2024. 

Medicare Supplements Plan G’s high-deductible plan has a $2,800 deductible before the plan will start coverage. 

Conclusion: 

What is the difference between Plan F and Plan G? Medicare Supplements Plan F and Plan G offer very similar coverage, the only difference is that Plan G does not cover the Medicare Part B deductible. That’s it, straightforward, no reason to overthink it. Don’t forget to add a Part D plan to whichever Medicare Supplement plan you choose here are 7 tips for Part D or check out more information HERE