Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans California

The vast majority of Medicare clinicians accept assignment, meaning they agree to accept the Medicare-approved amount as full payment for covered services. With providers who accept assignment, Plans F, G and N offer similar coverage after accounting for the Part B deductible that applies to Plans G and N, plus Plan N’s copays of up to $20 for certain office visits and up to $50 for certain emergency room visits.

Approximately 2% of Medicare providers do not accept assignment. For certain covered Part B services, they may charge up to 15% above the Medicare-approved amount (Part B excess charges). Plans F and G cover eligible excess charges; Plan N does not. That makes Plan N a potentially significant premium-saving option, but it is worth checking whether your preferred providers accept assignment. Benefit Packages can help you check.

Unlike a Medicare Advantage PPO, where an out-of-network provider may decline to treat you even if the plan offers out-of-network benefits, Original Medicare with a Supplement lets you see Medicare-participating providers nationwide who are accepting new Medicare patients. You do not need to worry about whether they contract with your Medicare Supplement carrier because Original Medicare remains your primary coverage. Providers who have opted out of Medicare are a different case.