Medicare Supplement Plan N, often called Medigap Plan N, fills many gaps left by Original Medicare. It helps cover deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments for hospital and medical services. This plan appeals to those seeking solid protection at a lower monthly premium.
Private insurers sell Plan N with standardized benefits across most states. Coverage remains consistent regardless of the company, though premiums vary by location, age, and health factors. It requires Original Medicare Parts A and B enrollment first.
Many beneficiaries choose Plan N for its balance of coverage and affordability. It includes small copays for doctor and emergency visits in exchange for reduced premiums. This structure suits people who visit providers occasionally and want predictable costs.
What Medicare Plan N Covers
Plan N pays the Medicare Part A hospital deductible fully. This covers the inpatient hospital deductible per benefit period. It also handles Part A coinsurance for hospital stays.
For skilled nursing facility care, Plan N covers coinsurance for days 21 through 100. This helps after hospital discharge when rehab continues. It provides up to 365 extra lifetime hospital days after Medicare benefits end.
Hospice care coinsurance or copayments get covered 100%. The first three pints of blood receive payment too. These benefits protect against high hospital-related expenses.
Part B Medical Coverage Details
Plan N covers 100% of Medicare Part B coinsurance or copayments for most services. This includes doctor visits, outpatient care, and durable medical equipment. Exceptions apply for office visits and emergency room use.
You pay up to $20 copay for some office visits with doctors. Emergency room visits carry up to $50 copay if not admitted to the hospital. The copay gets waived upon admission.
Plan N does not cover the annual Part B deductible. In 2026, this amount is $283. You pay it out-of-pocket before Plan N benefits apply to Part B services.
What Plan N Does Not Cover
Part B excess charges remain uncovered. These occur when a provider charges more than the Medicare-approved amount. Few providers do this since most accept assignment.
The Part B deductible stays your responsibility each year. Routine dental, vision, or hearing services fall outside Medigap coverage. Prescription drugs require separate Part D enrollment.
Foreign travel emergency care covers 80% after a $250 deductible. This applies to Medicare-covered services abroad. It offers limited international protection.
Comparing Medigap Plan N to Popular Alternatives
Here’s a comparison of key benefits for Plan N and two common plans:
| Benefit | Plan N | Plan G | Plan F |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part A Hospital Deductible | Covered 100% | Covered 100% | Covered 100% |
| Part B Deductible | Not covered ($283 in 2026) | Not covered | Covered |
| Part B Coinsurance | 100% (with office/ER copays) | 100% | 100% |
| Part B Excess Charges | Not covered | Covered 100% | Covered 100% |
| Foreign Travel Emergency | 80% after $250 deductible | 80% after $250 deductible | 80% after $250 deductible |
This table highlights why Plan N often costs less while providing strong core protection.
Costs Associated with Plan N
Monthly premiums for Plan N typically range from $80 to $200 depending on factors like age, gender, location, and tobacco use. Insurers set rates individually but must follow state rules. Shopping around yields the best price.
No plan deductible exists for Plan N itself. You only face the Part B deductible once annually. Copays remain fixed and predictable for qualifying visits.
Premiums stay level in many states but can increase with age or inflation. Community-rated plans charge the same regardless of age. Attained-age rates rise as you get older.
Eligibility and Enrollment Rules
Anyone enrolled in Original Medicare Parts A and B qualifies for Plan N. Best timing occurs during the six-month Medigap open enrollment period starting when Part B begins. Guaranteed issue applies without health questions.
Outside open enrollment, insurers may require medical underwriting. Pre-existing conditions could lead to waiting periods or denials. Some states offer continuous open enrollment protections.
Compare plans during Medicare’s annual open enrollment if switching. Changes take effect the following January. This allows adjustment as needs evolve.
How Plan N Works with Original Medicare
Original Medicare pays first for covered services. Plan N then covers remaining approved amounts per its benefits. Providers bill Medicare directly, then the supplement.
Assignment acceptance matters greatly. Participating providers limit charges to Medicare rates. This prevents excess charges that Plan N does not cover.
Claims process automatically in most cases. Insurers coordinate with Medicare for seamless payment. Keep your Medicare card and Plan N information handy.
Benefits of Choosing Plan N
Lower premiums make Plan N attractive compared to higher-coverage options. It covers major hospital and medical gaps effectively. Predictable copays help budget for routine care.
No network restrictions apply. You visit any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide. This freedom suits travelers or those with multiple specialists.
The plan includes foreign travel emergency coverage. This adds value for international trips. Overall, it balances cost and protection well.
Tips for Using Plan N Effectively:
- Track your Part B deductible spending each year.
- Choose doctors who accept Medicare assignment.
- Schedule preventive services to avoid unnecessary copays.
- Review premiums during open enrollment annually.
- Pair with a Part D plan for prescription coverage.
These habits maximize value from your supplement.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
Copays for office and emergency visits add up with frequent use. Heavy healthcare users may prefer plans without these fees. Excess charges remain a risk with non-participating providers.
No out-of-pocket maximum exists unlike some other plans. High medical needs could lead to ongoing costs. Weigh your expected usage carefully.
Prescription drugs require separate coverage. Plan N does not include Part D benefits. Enroll in a standalone drug plan if needed.
Comparing Plan N to Other Medigap Options
Plan G covers everything Plan N does plus the Part B deductible and excess charges. It often costs more monthly but eliminates surprises. Plan F includes even more but remains unavailable to new enrollees.
Lower-premium plans like K or L feature out-of-pocket limits but higher initial costs. They suit those with limited expected needs. Plan N strikes a middle ground for many.
Individual health, budget, and travel habits influence the best choice. Annual reviews ensure ongoing fit. Consulting a licensed agent clarifies options.
How to Shop for and Enroll in Plan N
Use Medicare.gov to compare plans by zip code. Enter medications and providers for accurate estimates. Many sites offer free quotes from multiple insurers.
Contact state insurance departments for guidance. Free counseling programs help understand benefits. Avoid high-pressure sales tactics.
Apply directly with the chosen insurer. Provide Medicare information and payment details. Coverage typically starts the first of the next month.
Staying Informed on Changes
Medigap benefits stay standardized but costs adjust yearly. Deductibles and copays update with inflation. Review official Medicare resources annually.
Premiums vary by insurer and may change. Shop during open enrollment if dissatisfied. This keeps coverage aligned with current needs.
Conclusion
Medicare Plan N delivers reliable supplemental coverage by handling most Part A and B gaps while keeping premiums affordable through small copays for office and emergency visits. It covers hospital deductibles, extended hospital days, skilled nursing coinsurance, and Part B coinsurance effectively for many beneficiaries. By understanding its benefits, exclusions, and costs, you can decide if Plan N fits your healthcare needs and budget, providing peace of mind alongside Original Medicare.
FAQ
What does Medicare Plan N cover?
Plan N covers the Part A hospital deductible, Part A coinsurance, skilled nursing facility coinsurance, and 100% of Part B coinsurance after the deductible. It includes up to 365 extra hospital days and 80% foreign travel emergency after a deductible. Copays apply for some office and ER visits.
Does Plan N cover the Part B deductible?
No, Plan N does not cover the annual Part B deductible. In 2026, this amount is $283. You pay it out-of-pocket each year before Plan N pays for Part B services.
How much are the copays with Plan N?
You pay up to $20 for some office visits and up to $50 for emergency room visits that do not lead to hospital admission. These copays get waived if admitted. Other Part B services have no copay after the deductible.
Does Plan N cover Part B excess charges?
No, Plan N does not cover Part B excess charges. These occur when a provider charges above the Medicare-approved amount. Choose doctors who accept assignment to avoid them.
What is the foreign travel emergency coverage in Plan N?
Plan N covers 80% of emergency services abroad after a $250 deductible. This applies to Medicare-covered care during travel. It offers limited protection for international emergencies.
How much does Medicare Plan N cost monthly?
Premiums typically range from $80 to $200 depending on age, location, gender, and insurer. Rates vary widely. Shop and compare for the best price in your area.
Who is eligible for Medicare Plan N?
Anyone enrolled in Original Medicare Parts A and B qualifies. Best enrollment occurs during the six-month Medigap open enrollment period. Guaranteed issue applies then without health questions.
Can I switch to Plan N later?
Yes, you can switch during Medicare’s annual open enrollment or with guaranteed issue rights. Medical underwriting may apply outside protected periods. Compare carefully before changing.
Dr. Usman is a medical content reviewer with 12+ years of experience in healthcare research and patient education. He specializes in evidence-based health information, medications, and chronic health topics. His work is based on trusted medical sources and current clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Content reviewed by Dr. Usman is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.