What both plans cover
Medigap plans are standardized, so a Plan G from one company covers the same benefits as a Plan G from another (Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin use their own standardized plans). Both cover the Part A hospital deductible and coinsurance, the first three pints of blood, hospice coinsurance, and skilled nursing facility coinsurance. Neither covers dental, vision, or hearing, and neither covers long-term care.
Where they differ
| Benefit | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part B coinsurance (20%) | Fully covered | Covered, except copays for some visits |
| Doctor office visit copay | $0 | Up to $20 |
| Emergency room copay (if not admitted) | $0 | Up to $50 |
| Part B excess charges | Covered | Not covered |
| Part B deductible ($283 in 2026) | You pay | You pay |
| Foreign travel emergency care | Covered with limits | Covered with limits |
| Monthly premium | Usually higher | Usually lower |
Part B excess charges are the extra amount some providers who do not accept Medicare's approved amount may charge, up to 15% more. Many providers accept the approved amount, so this rarely applies, but Plan N leaves you responsible if it does.
Plan F and Plan C
Plans C and F, which also paid the Part B deductible, cannot be sold to people who became eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020. If you already have one, you can keep it.
Which to choose
- Plan G fits people who see doctors often or want predictable costs: after the $283 Part B deductible, covered services have no copays.
- Plan N can cost less each month and suits people who visit doctors only occasionally and can handle copays.
Compare quotes from several insurers for the same plan letter, since price is the main difference. Premiums are priced in different ways (community-rated, issue-age, or attained-age), which changes how they rise over time.