Medicare Plan G vs. F: Comparing Plans, Coverage, and More

Medicare has a lot of parts, and each has its own benefits and costs. If you have Original Medicare, you have the opportunity to look at Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap plans.

The only time you have guaranteed acceptance for Medigap is during your initial enrollment period. After that, you can apply to a Medigap plan, but there are only limited times when you may be guaranteed issuance of a policy; otherwise, based on your health and other factors the plan may not accept your application.

Are you comparing supplement plans and wondering about Medicare Part G vs Part F? Understanding the difference between Medicare Part G vs. F can help you choose the Medigap plan that’s right for you.

Here’s what you need to know.

Medicare Plan F Compared to Plan G

Medigap plans are lettered A through N. Each one has different benefits, and these benefits are standardized. That means that whether you buy Plan M from one company or another, the benefits will be the same. However, the cost could be different!

Plans F and G are some of the most popular plans in Medigap. If you were newly eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020, you cannot buy Plan F. However, Plan G is still available to you.

What Does Medicare Plan G Cover?

In comparing Medicare supplement Part F vs Part G, you want to start with understanding what’s covered by each plan.

Medigap Part G covers:

• Part A coinsurance
• Hospital costs up to 365 days after Medicare benefits are used up
• Part B coinsurance or copayment
• The first three pints of blood if you need a transfusion
• Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment
• Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance
• Part A deductible
• Part B excess charge
• 80% of Foreign Travel Exchange, up to plan limits

You may be able to save money by getting a high-deductible version of Medicare Supplement Part G. That would require you to pay your costs up to $2,490 in 2022, and then the Supplement Plan would start the benefits listed above.

What Does Medicare Plan F Cover?

The next step in understanding Medicare Plan F compared to Plan G is knowing what Plan F covers. Plan F has a special benefit that is being phased out, which is why those newly eligible for Medicare in 2020 or later cannot purchase this plan.

Medigap Part F covers:

• Part A coinsurance
• Hospital costs up to 365 days after Medicare benefits are used up
• Part B coinsurance or copayment
• The first three pints of blood if you need a transfusion
• Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment
• Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance
• Part A deductible
• Part B deductible
• Part B excess charge
• 80% of Foreign Travel Exchange, up to plan limits

Similar to Supplement Plan Part G, Part F has a high-deductible option in some states where you pay your costs up to $2,490 before the Supplement kicks in.

What Is The Difference Between Plan F And Plan G?

As you can see, there’s actually only one difference in coverage for Medicare Part F vs. G. That is that Medicare Part F covers the Part B deductible, whereas Part G does not.

Medicare is phasing out plans that cover the Part B deductible, so anyone newly eligible for Medicare from January 1, 2020 and onward, cannot buy a Part F plan. However, they can still get great benefits with a Part G plan.

Which Is Better, Medicare Plan F vs Plan G?

The better plan depends on your circumstances. Medicare Supplement Plan F offers one additional benefit, coverage for the Part B deductible. However, extra coverage does come with a higher price. If you’re looking to get great value for a lower monthly payment, you might choose to get Supplement Plan G instead.

It’s also important to see what Supplement Plans are available in your area and compare the prices. You don’t necessarily want to get Plan G from a more expensive provider since the benefits are the same as every other Plan G.

Which Plan Is Right for Me?

When deciding which type of Medicare plan is right for your needs, it’s important to look at the big picture. What are your health needs, and how can Medicare help you manage them? What benefits do you need? Are out-of-pocket costs a major concern?

Comparing a variety of available plans with a licensed agent can help you find the right option for you and bring the peace of mind that you fully understand your choice.

Learn More About Medicare Supplement Plans

This guide answered the common questions about Medicare Plan F vs. G. If you have additional questions or want help comparing and choosing a Medicare plan, we’re here for you. Simply contact us today for more information!