While Plan N has gained popularity due to its lower premiums, some Medicare beneficiaries dislike the idea of paying copays at each doctor visit or emergency room trip. For those individuals, Medigap Plan D may be an attractive alternative. Plan D is often described as a hybrid between Plan N and Plan G. It covers most of the same benefits as Plan N but eliminates the office visit and emergency room copays.
Plan D pays the Part A coinsurance and hospital costs, Part A hospice care coinsurance, skilled nursing facility coinsurance and 80 % of eligible foreign travel emergencies after a $250 deductible. It also covers 100 % of Part B coinsurance for doctor visits and other outpatient services after the annual Part B deductible is met. However, like Plan N, it does not pay the Part B deductible or excess charges. It does not include coverage for dental, vision, hearing aids, long‑term care or prescription drugs; beneficiaries need to purchase separate insurance for these services.
Because it removes the per‑visit copays found in Plan N, Plan D premiums are typically higher than Plan N but still lower than Plan G. This makes it an appealing “middle ground” for beneficiaries who want to reduce out‑of‑pocket costs without paying top‑tier premiums. Plan D is not as widely available as Plan G or Plan N, and in some states it is primarily offered to people under 65 who qualify for Medicare due to disability. Nonetheless, as awareness grows, Plan D may become a popular choice for individuals who anticipate frequent doctor visits but do not want to pay the higher premiums associated with Plan G.
When considering Plan D, beneficiaries should evaluate their anticipated healthcare usage, available budget and tolerance for copays. They should also research insurers carefully, as premiums can vary significantly by company and region, and some insurers may offer additional perks. As with all Medigap plans, enrollment during the six‑month open enrollment period ensures acceptance without medical underwriting. Outside that period, acceptance may be subject to health questions.
For more information on how Plan D compares with other Medigap policies and whether it could suit your needs, read the detailed article: Medicare Supplement Plan D: Key Benefits and Coverage Explained.
