Understanding Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)
Before we dive into the worst Medicare Supplement plan, let’s do a quick overview of how these plans work. Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap, help cover costs that Original Medicare doesn’t, such as co-insurance, co-payments, and deductibles.
One of the key benefits of these plans is flexibility—you can see any doctor anywhere in the U.S. that accepts Medicare without needing referrals. However, the level of coverage you receive depends on the specific plan letter you choose (e.g., Plan G, Plan N, etc.).
It’s important to remember that while private insurance carriers sell these plans, the benefits of each plan letter are standardized by Medicare. However, premiums can vary significantly between insurance providers, so shopping around is essential to ensure you’re not overpaying. Give us a call at 800-208-4974, and we’d be happy to compare rates for you at no cost.
The Worst Medicare Supplement Plan: Plan A
Now, let’s talk about the worst Medicare Supplement plan you could buy: Medicare Supplement Plan A (not to be confused with Medicare Part A).
Why Is Plan A a Bad Choice?
Plan A offers minimal coverage while still carrying relatively high premiums. When comparing the cost of Plan A to more comprehensive options like Plan G or Plan N, the price difference is often negligible. That means you could end up paying almost as much for significantly less coverage.
What Plan A Doesn’t Cover:
- Medicare Part A Hospital Deductible: You’ll be responsible for this out-of-pocket cost, which is $1,676 in 2025.
- Skilled Nursing Facility Coverage: If you need extended care after a hospital stay, you’ll be on the hook for daily co-payments.
- Foreign Travel Benefits: If you travel outside the U.S., you won’t have coverage for emergencies, leaving you financially vulnerable.
Real-World Example: Why Plan A Could Cost You Thousands
Imagine you have Plan A and end up in the hospital. Here’s what you’ll have to pay out-of-pocket:
- Hospital Stay: You must cover the $1,676 Medicare Part A deductible before your benefits kick in.
- Skilled Nursing Facility Stay: If you require rehab care after hospitalization, you’re responsible for a $209.50 per day co-payment for days 21 through 100.
Since Medicare only fully covers the first 20 days, that means for 80 days of Skilled Nursing Facility care, you’d pay $12,570 out-of-pocket.
Total Out-of-Pocket Costs: Over $14,246 just for one hospital stay and rehab period.
And that’s without considering other potential medical expenses. The bottom line? Plan A doesn’t provide enough coverage to justify its cost, and it leaves you exposed to high out-of-pocket expenses.
The Best Medicare Supplement Plans: Plan G & Plan N
Now that you know why Plan A is a poor choice, let’s talk about better alternatives that offer more coverage for a similar price.
Medicare Supplement Plan G
- Covers 100% of Medicare Part A deductible
- Covers Skilled Nursing Facility co-insurance
- Covers Part B coinsurance and excess charges
- Includes $50,000 in emergency foreign travel benefits
- The only out-of-pocket cost is the Part B deductible ($185.00 in 2025)
Plan G is one of the most comprehensive Medigap options, making it an excellent choice for those who want maximum coverage with predictable costs.
Medicare Supplement Plan N
- Covers Medicare Part A deductible
- Same deductible as Pan G
- Covers Skilled Nursing Facility co-insurance
- Includes foreign travel emergency benefits
- Requires a small co-pay of up to $20 for doctor visits and $50 for emergency room visits (waived if admitted)
- Does not cover Medicare Part B excess charges
Plan N is slightly cheaper than Plan G and a great option if you don’t mind small co-pays in exchange for lower monthly premiums.
Why Plan G or Plan N Are Better Choices
- They cover the major gaps in Original Medicare, unlike Plan A.
- They offer better value for your money, sometimes costing less than Plan A despite providing significantly more coverage.
- They provide peace of mind, knowing you won’t face massive unexpected medical expenses.
Final Thoughts: Avoid Plan A at All Costs
To recap, Medicare Supplement Plan A is a terrible option. It provides minimal coverage while still charging high premiums, making it a waste of money compared to Plan G or Plan N.
If you’re currently considering Medicare Supplement plans, make sure you do your research and compare options. Give us a call today at 800-208-4974, and we’ll help you find the best plan for your needs at the most competitive price.
Alex Wender is the founder and CEO of Bluewave Insurance. He has been blogging about Medicare-related topics since 2010. Since then, he and his agency have helped thousands of people across the country choose the right Medicare to fit their needs.