Medicare Supplement – Plan N

There are two costs that aren’t included in Plan N, plus some copays for office visits. Let’s look at each one.

First, the Part B deductible is not included in Plan N. Since no new Medicare beneficiaries are eligible for Plan F (the only plan that pays the Part B deductible), we don’t see this as a plan limitation.

Second, Part B excess charges are also not covered. An “excess charge” is an amount above and beyond the Medicare-approved fee. If your provider does not accept Medicare assignment, they can charge up to 15% more for their services. If you have Plan N, you’ll be responsible for any excess charges. This may or may not matter very much. More than 90% of all healthcare providers accept Medicare assignment. In addition, there are eight states which prohibit the use of excess charges.

Part B Excess Charges are not allowed in the following states:

● Connecticut
● Massachusetts
● Minnesota
● New York
● Ohio
● Pennsylvania
● Rhode Island
● Vermont

The biggest difference you’ll notice between Plan N and the other two most popular Medicare supplements (Plans F and G) is that Plan N requires office visit copays. You will be responsible for up $20 for each office visit and up to $50 for each emergency room visit unless your ER visit results in hospital admission.

Notice that we say “up to.” Your provider may charge less (but never more than) these copayment amounts.