If you need more coverage than what you get from Medicare alone, you can get extra protection from Medicare Supplement Insurance. Medicare Supplement (or Medigap) Plan F is one of the most popular plans available because of the broad coverage it provides. Figuring out if Plan F is right for you depends on your eligibility, budget, health, and other personal needs.
Medicare Supplement Plan F Availability
Plan F availability is limited and is no longer available for newly-eligible beneficiaries. However, you can still be “grandfathered” into the plan if you were eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
Those who were eligible for Medicare before 2020 might be tempted to pick Plan F simply because it seems exclusive, but it’s best to carefully consider your coverage options.
Medigap Plan F Coverage
When deciding between Medicare Supplement plans, knowing the differences in coverage is crucial. You want to find a plan that fits your unique health care needs at a good price for your wallet.
When compared against other plans, Plan F offers extensive coverage for out-of-pocket medical costs. Let’s take a look at what Plan F covers:
- Part A deductible, coinsurance, and any hospital costs
- Part A hospice care copayments and coinsurance
- Part B deductible, coinsurance, and copayments
- Part B excess charges
- First three pints of blood if transfusion is needed
- 80% of the billed charges for certain medically-necessary emergency care outside the U.S.
- Coinsurance for skilled nursing facilities
- Limit on out of pocket cost after your deductible is met
Medigap Plan F Premium Costs
Keep in mind that when you compare Medicare Supplement plans, you need to consider both the costs of monthly premiums and your future health care bills. Generally speaking, a higher monthly premium implicates lower health care bills in the future. But if you’re on a limited budget, a higher monthly premium may not be in your best interest.
Plan F tends to have a higher monthly premium because of its extensive out-of-pocket coverage. If you don’t often use Part B, you may not need this extensive coverage since your out-of-pocket costs are already minimal.
However, if you use your Medicare Part B frequently, Plan F might save you money, even with its higher premiums. Paying more money upfront for your Medicare Supplement plan will help mitigate surprise out-of-pocket costs later.
Is Plan F Right For You?
Still not sure which Medicare Supplement plan is right for you? We can help. Our Licensed Insurance Agents take the time to learn about your health care needs and offer personalized recommendations for you. Give us a call at (855) 665-9200 or visit our Plan Comparison tool to get started.
