Medicare Supplement Plan N vs G: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to covering healthcare costs in retirement, many seniors find that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) doesn’t go far enough.
That’s why we want to talk about Medicare Supplement Insurance, also known as Medigap. These private insurance policies help cover the gaps in Medicare, including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.
However, not all Medigap plans are the same.
Two of the most popular choices are Medicare Supplement Plan N and Plan G. While both offer comprehensive coverage for many out-of-pocket costs, the differences between them could impact your monthly premiums and how much you pay when you visit the doctor.
Let’s break down the key differences, pros, and costs of Medicare Supplement Plan N vs G so you can make an informed choice based on your health needs and budget.
Table of Content
1. What Are Medigap Plans?
2. Side-by-Side Comparison: Medicare Supplement Plan N vs Plan G
3. Plan G: Pros and Cons
4. Plan N: Pros and Cons
5. How Do You Choose a Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan?
6. Don’t Forget About Enrollment & Availability
7. Still Not Sure Which Medigap Plan Fits Best?
What Are Medigap Plans?
Medicare Supplement plans are offered by private insurance companies to help pay for some of the healthcare costs not covered by Original Medicare.
These include:
- Part A deductibles, copays and hospital costs
- Part B deductibles and coinsurance
- Skilled nursing facility care
- Foreign travel emergency medical care (with some plans)
While Medicare pays for approved medical services, Medigap helps with the leftover bills that can add up fast.
Think of it as a safety net that helps cover Medicare-approved expenses so you’re not caught off guard by out-of-pocket costs.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Medicare Supplement Plan N vs Plan G
While Plan G and Plan N are both popular Medigap options, the differences in cost-sharing and coverage details can affect your healthcare budget and experience.
Use the chart below to compare the key features of each plan at a glance:
| Feature | Plan G | Plan N |
| Monthly Premium | Higher | Lower |
| Part B Deductible | Not covered | Not covered |
| Doctor Visit Copays | $0 | Up to $20 for certain office visits |
| ER Visit Copays | $0 | Up to $50 |
| 15% Excess Charges | Covered | Not covered |
| Foreign Travel Emergency | Yes | Yes |
| Predictability | More consistent | Slightly more variable |
| Best For | Frequent doctor visits, peace of mind | Healthy individuals who use fewer services |
Both plans provide coverage for Medicare-approved services, but the way they handle out-of-pocket costs is where they diverge.
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Plan G: Pros and Cons
Medigap Plan G is one of the most popular Medicare Supplement options, and for good reason. It offers nearly full coverage of Medicare-approved medical services, making it a go-to choice for those who prefer financial predictability.
The catch? That level of coverage comes with a price. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of Medicare Supplement Plan G:
Pros:
- Offers some of the most comprehensive coverage available under Medigap.
- Covers nearly all Medicare-approved costs except the Part B deductible.
- Predictable monthly expenses with no copays for office visits or emergency room services.
- Covers Part B excess charges, which some doctors bill over Medicare’s approved amount.
Cons:
- Higher monthly premiums compared to Plan N.
- May be more coverage than necessary if you rarely need medical care.
Medicare Supplement Plan G is a strong option for anyone who values predictability and doesn’t want to deal with surprise fees at the doctor’s office or hospital.
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Plan N: Pros and Cons
Plan N is often considered a budget-friendly alternative to Plan G. While it doesn’t offer quite as much coverage, it still includes most of the benefits that matter to Medicare beneficiaries.
As such, it’s a solid option for those who are generally healthy and prefer to save on monthly premiums, so long as they’re comfortable with occasional copays.
Let’s break it down:
Pros:
- Lower monthly premiums make it attractive for seniors on a tighter budget.
- Still provides coverage for the major Medicare benefits, including hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, and foreign travel emergency coverage.
- Copays for doctor and emergency room visits are manageable.
Cons:
- Requires copays for certain office visits and emergency room visits.
- Does not cover Medicare Part B excess charges.
- Less predictable overall out-of-pocket costs compared to Plan G.
Plan N is often a smart choice for relatively healthy individuals who are comfortable with occasional copays and who don’t visit the doctor’s office or emergency room frequently.
How Do You Choose a Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan?
Choosing between Medigap Plan G and Plan N comes down to your personal healthcare needs and financial situation.
Here are a few questions to consider:
- Do you see the doctor often or need regular medical services?
- Are you comfortable paying small copays in exchange for lower monthly premiums?
- Would you rather have predictable costs, even if they’re slightly higher?
Both plans help cover Medicare-approved services and offer strong support when you need hospital care, emergency room treatment, or follow-up visits. Your decision should reflect your comfort level with out-of-pocket costs, your current health, and how often you anticipate using medical services.
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Don’t Forget About Enrollment & Availability
Timing matters when you purchase a Medicare Supplement plan. Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (the six-month window that starts the month you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B) is usually the best time to enroll.
During this period:
- You can purchase any Medigap plan available in your area.
- Insurance companies cannot deny you coverage or charge you more based on your medical history.
- You avoid the risk of medical underwriting, which could make it harder to switch plans later.
Keep in mind that availability can vary by state. Not all Medigap plans are offered everywhere, and monthly premiums may differ depending on your age, insurance company and ZIP code.
For example, in Nevada, Plan G and Plan N are commonly available, but prices and offerings can vary by insurance carrier.
Still Not Sure Which Medigap Plan Fits Best?
Both Plan G and Plan N offer strong Medicare supplement health insurance coverage, but each suits a different kind of healthcare user.
If you’re someone who wants to avoid surprise costs and doesn’t mind slightly higher premiums, Plan G might make more sense. If you’d rather pay a lower premium and don’t mind occasional copays or some limited exclusions, Plan N may be a better fit.
Want help comparing your options? At Senior Insurance Agency, we work with Nevada residents every day to answer questions about Medigap policies, enrollment timing, and plan limits.
If you’re looking for real guidance, not sales pressure, our licensed Medicare advisors are here to help you understand your choices and make the most informed decision for your situation.
Contact our insurance brokers today to discuss Medigap Plan G vs Plan N. We’re here to make everything about Medicare in Reno easier!
About the Author: Se’Leah Schultz
I began working with Senior Insurance Agency many years ago. After obtaining my bachelors in applied mathematics, I became an agent in 2020. My specialty is in ObamaCare (Nevada Health Link) and Medicare. Away from work, I cherish family time with my husband and three children, and enjoy hobbies like…