Medicare Supplements Made Easy Network Updated on May 17, 2012

Medicare Supplement Letter Plans Explained

Due to the recent influx of problems and changes concerning Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplements are definitely the best way to go. We know that supplements involve a monthly premium that, in most cases, covers almost all doctor and hospital procedures. However, Medicare Supplements are certainly not one size fits all. In fact, in 2011, there are several different letter plans to choose from. Three in particular are worth taking a closer look.

Plan F is the best choice, simply because it covers absolutely everything Medicare approved when it comes to doctors and hospitals. It is also very affordable. Purchasers of Plan F solemn incur out of pocket medical expenses. Plan F covers the Medicare Part A deductible, of $1100. It also covers the Part B deductible of $155. Furthermore, Plan F will cover the 20% coinsurance original Medicare leaves exposed. Plan F also picks up the Part B excess charges and allows for foreign travel.

Plan D is the second-best option. Some consider it the most affordable as well. Plan D has an identical benefit package to Plan D, except it leaves you exposed to the $155 Part D annual deductible. However, Plan D is over $15 a month cheaper. This means that over the course of a year, if you’re healthy and rarely visit a doctor, that you will save money. It is also widely offered among the insurance companies.

After Plan F and Plan D, there is really only one other suitable Medicare Supplement Plan option. It is Plan N, a brand-new plan, which began June 1st, 2010. It was designed to create a more affordable supplement option that covered many out of pocket expenses Medicare leaves for you to cover. It is also the most popular plan. Plan N is far less expensive than other plans, but enrollees will incur a greater share of costs for medical services. Plan N covers the Part A deductible of $1100, which relates to hospital expenses. It also covers Part B excess and foreign travel. Co-payments associated with Plan N are the Part B annual deductible of $155, a $20 co-payment for doctor visits, and a $50 co-payment for emergency room trips.

Sources argue that Medicare beneficiaries who are used to traditional employer plans, PPOS, and Medicare advantage plan recipients will be the most apt to purchase Plan N. It is a fantastic option for folks who cannot necessarily afford Plan F, but still want to stay on traditional Medicare to avoid the problems surrounding Medicare advantage plans. Being very healthy and visiting the doctor rarely will also make this plan a smart, affordable option for shielding yourself from high medical cost.

Related Links
Free Medicare Supplement Quote
Medicare and you handbook (PDF)
Medicare.gov
Medicare Supplement Videos
Medicare Supplement Forum

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