by Russell Noga | Updated September 27th, 2023
As the world of Medicare Supplement plans can be a complex landscape to navigate, it’s essential to understand the ins and outs of each plan to make an informed decision for your healthcare needs.
One such plan, Medicare Supplement Plan N, offers a unique blend of coverage and affordability.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits, coverage, and costs of Plan N, as well as how it compares to other popular Medigap plans.
Let’s dive in and discover if Plan N is the ideal choice for you and answer the question, “Does Plan N cover 100% of your healthcare needs?”
Short Summary
- Medigap Plan N is a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan providing additional coverage for expenses not covered by Original Medicare.
- Plan N does not cover the Part B deductible and copayments, with enrollees responsible for partial costs and cost-sharing.
- Comparing Medigap plans such as G & F to determine suitable coverage option is essential, while special enrollment circumstances may allow enrollment outside of open enrollment period.
Understanding Medicare Supplement Plan N
Medicare Supplement Plan N is a standardized insurance plan that is frequently referred to as Medigap Plan N. It is intended to fill gaps in coverage provided by Original Medicare.
Offered by private insurance companies, Plan N serves as an alternative to Medicare Advantage plans, providing additional coverage for expenses not covered by Medicare.
The average cost of Plan N is approximately $111 per month, making it an attractive option for those looking to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.
What is Medigap Plan N?
Medigap Plan N is a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan that covers most gaps in coverage except for the Part B deductible and copayments of up to $20 for office visits and $50 for ER visits.
Plan N does not cover excess charges of your provider who does not accept Medicare Assignment, though it’s estimated that over 90% of doctor’s in this country do. This rule applies unless you live in a state where Medicare Part B excess charges aren’t allowed.
On the other hand, Plan N covers the cost of the first 3 pints of blood and is available to individuals who are eligible for Medicare and have enrolled in Part A and Part B.
How does Medicare Plan N work with Original Medicare?
Plan N operates in conjunction with Original Medicare to cover supplementary costs, such as hospital costs, skilled nursing facility care, and foreign travel emergency costs, with certain copayments mandated. To prevent incurring additional charges with Plan N, it is recommended to visit healthcare providers who accept Medicare Assignment.
A participating healthcare provider agrees to accept Medicare’s payment in full and does not charge the Medicare beneficiary for any additional cost of the visit or procedure, while a non-participating provider may impose up to 15% of the Medicare-approved cost as an excess charge.
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Does Plan N Cover 100% of Costs?
Although Plan N covers a significant portion of the expenses not included in Original Medicare, it does not include coverage for the Medicare Part B deductible or Medicare Part B excess charges, and there are no out-of-pocket limits associated with the plan.
Enrollees in Plan N may be liable for certain cost-sharing, comprising of copayments and possible excess charges (though rare), which contribute to their out-of-pocket expenses.
Benefits Covered at 100% by Plan N
Under Plan N, Medicare Part A coinsurance, hospice care coinsurance, and skilled nursing facility care coinsurance are all covered in full.
This means that for these specific Medicare benefits, enrollees in Plan N can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing their medical expenses, including coinsurance and hospital costs, will be covered without any additional out-of-pocket costs.
Medigap Plan N is a great option for those looking for comprehensive coverage without the added cost of high monthly premiums.
Partial Coverage and Cost-Sharing in Plan N
Enrollees in Plan N are responsible for some cost-sharing, including:
- Copayments for certain doctor’s office visits (up to $20)
- Copayments for emergency room visits (up to $50)
- Potential excess charges for Medicare Part B services
Comparing Plan N with Other Medigap Plans
While Plan N has its unique set of benefits and cost-sharing structures, it’s essential to compare it with other popular Medigap plans, such as Plan G and Plan F, to determine the best coverage option for your individual needs.
Comparing the different plans can help you decide which one is the best fit for your budget.
Medicare Plan N vs. Plan G
The primary distinction between Plan N and Plan G is that Plan G covers the Medicare Part B deductible, while Plan N does not. Both plans provide similar coverage, yet Plan G has marginally higher premiums.
However, Plan G does not require copays for physician office visits or trips to the ER that do not result in hospitalization, which differs from Plan N and may be attractive to beneficiaries who prefer not to pay copays for such services.
Medicare Plan N vs. Plan F
Plan F provides more extensive coverage than Plan N, including coverage for the Medicare Part B deductible. Additionally, Plan F has higher premiums than Plan N.
However, it’s worth noting that Plan F has been unavailable to new enrollees since 2020. Therefore, for those who became eligible for Medicare in 2020 or later, Plan N may be a more viable option to consider for supplementary coverage.
Factors Affecting Plan N Premiums
The premiums of Plan N are affected by factors such as:
- Age
- Location
- Tobacco use
- Pricing methods employed by insurance companies
Younger individuals typically pay lower premiums than older individuals, while premiums can vary by state. Smokers usually pay higher premiums than non-smokers, and different companies may use different methods to set premiums, such as community rating, issue-age rating, and attained-age rating.
It is important to understand how these factors affect the premiums of Plan N in order to make a decision.
Enrollment Process for Medigap Plan N
The 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period for Plan N commences when an individual attains the age of 65 and extends for a period of six months, during which enrollment can be completed without answering health questions or undergoing medical underwriting.
However, if you are currently enrolled in a Medigap plan you may apply to switch to another supplement plan at any time during the year. Medical underwriting will likely apply.
Open Enrollment Period
Enrolling in a Medigap Plan during the open enrollment period, no health questions will be asked, and medical underwriting will not be necessary. The open enrollment period starts on the first day of the month in which you turn 65.
To qualify, you must have Part A and Part B coverage. This period lasts for six months.
It’s of utmost importance to enroll during this period to avoid potential coverage denial or higher premiums as a result of health conditions.
Special Enrollment Circumstances
Special enrollment circumstances may enable you to enroll in Plan N outside of the open enrollment period without having to undergo medical underwriting or pay higher premiums. These circumstances typically span 63 days following the termination of prior credible coverage such as employer group coverage.
It’s essential to be aware of these special circumstances and how they may affect your ability to enroll in Plan N, ensuring you have the supplemental coverage you need when you need it most.
Tips for Choosing the Right Medicare Supplement Plan
When choosing the right Medicare Supplement plan in 2024, it’s crucial to compare premiums, coverage, and provider networks offered by each plan, including Medicare Advantage Plan options.
Take into account your current and future medical needs, any medications being taken, and any pre-existing conditions that may be present. Considering various Medicare supplement plans will help you make an informed decision.
Additionally, you can call us today and one of our licensed insurance agents can assist you in comparing plan options and understanding the costs.
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Traveling with Plan N: Foreign Travel Emergency Coverage
For those who love to explore the world, Plan N offers peace of mind when traveling outside the United States. Medigap Plan N provides coverage for 80% of the costs of qualified emergency medical care when traveling outside of the U.S.
This coverage can be invaluable in the event of an unexpected medical emergency, ensuring that you can focus on enjoying your travels without worrying about the financial burden of unforeseen medical expenses.
Plan N is a great option for those who want to travel with confidence, knowing that they can travel with confidence.
Summary
In conclusion, Medicare Supplement Plan N offers a unique blend of coverage and affordability, making it an attractive option for those seeking to bridge the gaps in their Original Medicare coverage.
By comparing premiums, coverage, and provider networks, and consulting with a licensed insurance agent, you can determine if Plan N is the best choice for your healthcare needs.
With the added benefit of foreign travel emergency coverage, Plan N provides peace of mind for beneficiaries who love to explore the world.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare Plan N cover 100% of all medical expenses?
No, Medicare Plan N does not cover 100% of all medical expenses. While it provides robust coverage, there are still some out-of-pocket costs you may incur, such as copayments and deductibles.
What are the out-of-pocket costs with Medicare Plan N?
With Medicare Plan N, you may have copayments for doctor’s office visits and emergency room visits, as well as a Part B deductible. These copays can vary depending on your specific healthcare needs.
Is there a maximum out-of-pocket limit with Medicare Plan N?
Medicare Plan N does not have a maximum out-of-pocket limit, unlike some other Medicare plans. You will continue to pay copayments throughout the year as they come up.
Are prescription drugs covered under Medicare Plan N?
Medicare Plan N does not cover prescription drugs. You would need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan to get prescription drug coverage.
Can I see any doctor or specialist with Medicare Plan N?
Yes, you can see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare patients. Medicare Plan N does not restrict your choice of healthcare providers.
Is there a network of healthcare providers with Plan N?
No, Medicare Plan N does not have a network of providers. You can seek care from any provider that accepts Medicare.
Does Plan N covers medical expenses when traveling abroad?
Medicare Plan N has limited coverage for emergency medical expenses when traveling abroad. It only covers emergencies and has a lifetime limit on these benefits.
Can I switch from another Medicare plan to Plan N?
Yes, you can apply to switch to Medicare Plan N at any time during the year. In most cases, you will have to answer medical questions to qualify for the new plan.
What should I consider before choosing Medicare Plan N?
Before choosing Plan N, consider your healthcare needs, budget, and how it compares to other Medicare plans. It’s essential to review the specifics of the plan to ensure it aligns with your requirements.
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Finding the right Medicare plan doesn’t have to be confusing. Whether it’s a Medigap plan or you have questions about Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D, we can help.
Call now at 1-888-891-0229, and one of our knowledgeable, licensed insurance agents will be happy to assist you!
Russell Noga is the CEO and Medicare editor of Medisupps.com. His 15 years of experience in the Medicare insurance market includes being a licensed Medicare insurance broker in all 50 states. He is frequently featured as a featured as a keynote Medicare event speaker, has authored hundreds of Medicare content pages, and hosts the very popular Medisupps.com Medicare Youtube channel. His expertise includes Medicare, Medigap insurance, Medicare Advantage plans, and Medicare Part D.