Should I Switch From Plan F to Plan G?

Many Medicare beneficiaries who enjoy the healthcare benefits of Medicare Supplement Plan F have been enticed by the lower premiums of Medicare Supplement Plan G. However, is the switch worth it in the long run? Let’s look at the pros and cons of switching to Medigap Plan G to help you make an informed decision.

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Pros of Switching to Medigap Plan G

1. Lower monthly premiums: The biggest pro of switching to Medicare Supplement Plan G is that it generally has lower premiums than Medicare Supplement Plan F. This may allow you to save money on premiums without sacrificing coverage.

2. Lower rate increases: Since Medigap Plan F is being phased out, its premiums are expected to continue increasing. However, since Plan G is a newer plan, it may have lower rate increases, ultimately giving you a chance to save money.

3. Coverage: Plan G covers nearly the same out-of-pocket costs as Plan F, which includes the Original Medicare Part A deductible, Part A and Part B coinsurance, foreign travel emergency care,‌ skilled nursing facility services, outpatient testing, and Medicare Part B excess charges. The only difference is that Plan G does not cover the Medicare Part B annual deductible.

Cons of Switching to Medigap Plan G:

1. Cost-sharing: With Plan G, you’ll be responsible for the annual Part B deductible (currently $240 for 2024). Once you’ve met the deductible, all other Medicare-approved services will be covered at 100%.

2. Part B deductible increases: As of 2024, the Part B deductible is only $240, but in the future, it may increase more, making Plan F the better choice under this consideration (as long as the premiums don’t outweigh the cost difference).

3. Confusion: Switching plans can be confusing and cause you to worry about whether you’re getting all the coverage you need. However, speaking with a licensed insurance agent will help you make the right decision when comparing different Medicare coverage plan options.

Conclusion

Answering the question of whether you should switch to Medicare Supplement Plan G from Medicare Supplement Plan F will depend on your needs and budget. The main takeaway is that Plan G offers almost the same coverage as Plan F but at a slightly lower cost.

However, it’s essential to consider the cost-sharing factor with Plan G and the availability of the plan. If you’re unsure about the switch, consider chatting with one of our licensed insurance agents. They can walk you through the pros and cons of each Medigap plan and help you make the best enrollment decision for your situation.

Article resources: Medigap Plan F vs. Medigap Plan G – Comparing Medigap Plans – How To Switch Plans – Can You Switch Without Underwriting?

FAQs

• Is Plan G as reliable as Plan F?

  Although Plan F provides the most coverage, it is not accessible to everyone due to eligibility restrictions. On the other hand, Plan G covers almost as much as Plan F and is available to any Medicare member. It is also important to note that because Plan F covers more than Plan G, its cost is also higher.

• What is the difference between Plan F and Plan G?

  Medigap Plan G does not include coverage for the Medicare Part B deductible, whereas Medigap Plan F does. As of 2024, the Part B deductible is $240 per year.

• Is Plan F being discontinued?

  If you already have Plan F, you can keep it for as long as you prefer. However, if you qualified for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020, you can no longer enroll in Plan F. Most people consider Plan G to be the next best plan.