Plan G and Plan N are the two most popular Medigap choices for new enrollees. Here's a clear side-by-side comparison.
What's the difference between Plan G and Plan N?
Plan G and Plan N both cover the Part A deductible and coinsurance, Part B coinsurance, skilled nursing coinsurance, blood, hospice, and foreign travel emergencies. The differences are three: Plan N charges small copays (up to $20 for office visits, up to $50 for non-admitted ER visits) while Plan G charges none; Plan G covers Part B excess charges while Plan N does not; and Plan G typically costs more per month. Both leave you the annual Part B deductible. So you're really trading a lower premium (N) against zero point-of-care costs and excess-charge protection (G). Call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) to compare both.
Which plan saves you more money?
The cheaper plan depends on how much care you use and your local billing. If you see doctors often, Plan N's copays can add up and Plan G's higher premium may pay off through zero point-of-care costs. If you're healthy and rarely visit doctors, Plan N's lower premium usually wins. Where Part B excess charges are common, Plan G's protection adds value; where they're banned or rare, that benefit matters less. There's no universal answer, the right choice depends on your numbers. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can model both based on your real usage, at no cost.