Question 1

What is a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan?

Accepted Answer

A Medicare Supplement plan, also called Medigap, is private insurance that works alongside Original Medicare to help cover the costs Medicare does not pay — like the 20% coinsurance, copays, and deductibles. With a good supplement plan, your out-of-pocket costs for Medicare-covered services can be very predictable.

Question 2

What is the most popular Medicare Supplement plan?

Accepted Answer

Plan G is currently the most popular Medicare Supplement plan for new enrollees. It covers everything except the Part B deductible ($240 in 2024). Plan N is the second most popular — it has a lower premium but you pay small copays ($20 for office visits, $50 for ER visits).

Question 3

What is the difference between Plan G and Plan N?

Accepted Answer

Plan G covers nearly all Medicare cost-sharing except the Part B deductible. Plan N also skips the Part B deductible but adds small copays for office and ER visits. Plan N typically has a lower monthly premium, making it attractive if you are generally healthy and do not visit doctors frequently.

Question 4

Can I be denied a Medicare Supplement plan?

Accepted Answer

Outside of your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) or other guaranteed issue windows, Medicare Supplement plans can use medical underwriting — meaning you could be denied or charged higher premiums based on health conditions. During your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (the 6 months after you turn 65 and enroll in Part B), you have guaranteed issue rights.

Question 5

What is the Medigap birthday rule in Arizona?

Accepted Answer

Arizona has a birthday rule that allows Medicare Supplement enrollees to switch to an equal or lesser benefit plan during the 30-day window around their birthday each year — without underwriting. This can help you find a lower premium with a different carrier.

Question 6

How are Medicare Supplement premiums priced?

Accepted Answer

Medicare Supplement premiums are priced one of three ways: community-rated (everyone pays the same), issue-age-rated (based on age when you buy), or attained-age-rated (increases as you get older). Understanding which pricing method a plan uses helps you project long-term costs.

Benefit	Plan G	Plan N
Part A coinsurance & hospital costs	✅	✅
Part B coinsurance or copayment	✅	✅ (small copays)
Part A hospice care coinsurance	✅	✅
Skilled nursing facility coinsurance	✅	✅
Part A deductible	✅	✅
Part B deductible	❌	❌
Part B excess charges	✅	❌
Office visit copay (up to $20)	✅ none	❌ up to $20
ER visit copay (up to $50)	✅ none	❌ up to $50

Medicare Supplement Plans

Plan G vs. Plan N — Which Is Right for You?

Frequently Asked Questions