When you enroll in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), it doesn’t cover everything. You’re still responsible for deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance that can add up quickly. That’s where Medicare Supplement Insurance, often called Medigap, comes in. These policies, sold by private insurers, help pay those extra costs. Among the many standardized Medigap plans available, Plan N has become a popular choice. But is it the right one for you?

What Is Medicare Supplement Plan N?

Plan N is one of the standardized Medigap options created to fill the gaps that Original Medicare leaves behind. Like other Medigap plans, it provides financial protection from high medical costs, but it’s structured with a balance: lower monthly premiums in exchange for some out-of-pocket responsibilities. The coverage is the same nationwide because it’s set by federal law, although premiums can vary depending on the insurer, your age, and your state.

What Does Plan N Cover?

With Plan N, many of the biggest expenses under Medicare Part A are covered. That means hospital stays, skilled nursing facility coinsurance, hospice care costs, and even the Part A deductible are taken care of. You’re also covered for the first three pints of blood each year, and you get a benefit for foreign travel emergencies.

For Part B services, Plan N pays the 20 percent coinsurance that Medicare typically leaves you with, but there are a few exceptions:

• You’ll be responsible for a copayment of up to $20 for some doctor visits.
• You’ll pay up to $50 if you use the emergency room but aren’t admitted.
• Plan N does not cover the Part B deductible.
• Plan N does not pay for Part B “excess charges” (extra amounts doctors can bill above Medicare’s approved rate in some states).

What Isn’t Covered?

Like all Medigap plans, Plan N doesn’t cover everything. It won’t pay for:

• Prescription drugs (you’ll need a Part D plan for that).
• Dental, vision, or hearing care (requires separate coverage).
• Part B excess charges if your doctor bills above Medicare’s standard rate.

If you live in a state where excess charges are common or see doctors who don’t accept Medicare’s approved rates, those extra costs will fall to you.

What Does It Cost?

Plan N is usually less expensive each month compared to more comprehensive Medigap plans like Plan G or the older Plan F. The trade-off is that you’ll pay small co-pays for certain services and remain responsible for the Part B deductible. Premiums vary depending on your location, insurer, age, and tobacco use.

Many people are attracted to Plan N because its lower monthly cost can make it easier to budget, while still offering strong protection for major medical expenses.

The Advantages of Plan N

• Affordability: Lower premiums compared to Plan G or Plan F.
• Comprehensive hospital coverage: Strong protection for hospital stays and skilled nursing care.
• Widespread availability: Most insurers that offer Medigap include Plan N.

The Drawbacks of Plan N

• You’ll pay ongoing out-of-pocket costs (doctor visit and ER co-pays).
• Frequent doctor visits could reduce the benefit of lower premiums.
• Doesn’t cover Part B excess charges (which can be an issue in some states).

Who Might Benefit From Plan N?

Plan N works well for people who are in relatively good health, don’t expect frequent doctor visits, and want a balance between coverage and affordability. It’s especially appealing if:

• You want lower monthly premiums while still protecting against major costs.
• You live in a state where doctors generally accept Medicare’s standard rates (so excess charges aren’t an issue).
• You don’t mind occasional small co-pays for office or ER visits.

When Plan G May Be a Better Fit

If you expect frequent doctor visits or prefer more predictable costs, Plan G may be worth considering. It has higher monthly premiums, but:

• No co-pays for office or ER visits.
• Covers Part B excess charges.
• Provides near-complete protection for predictable healthcare costs.

Making the Choice

Ultimately, the decision between Plan N and other Medigap options comes down to your health, your budget, and your tolerance for handling smaller out-of-pocket expenses. Plan N offers solid coverage at a lower price point, but the trade-off is that you may pay more when you use care.

If you’re generally healthy and want to save on monthly premiums, Plan N could be the best option. But if you prefer maximum protection and don’t mind paying a little more each month, Plan G may provide better long-term value.