What is Medigap Plan C?
Medigap Plan C was a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan that helped pay some of the healthcare costs that Original Medicare didn’t cover. This included copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. However, it’s important to note that Medigap Plan C is no longer available to those who were newly eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020.
Coverage Breakdown of Medigap Plan C
Let’s take a look at what Medigap Plan C covered:
Coverage | Medigap Plan C |
Part A Coinsurance & hospital | ✓ |
Part B coinsurance or copayment | ✓ |
Blood (first 3 pints) | ✓ |
Part A hospice care coinsurance | ✓ |
Skilled nursing facility care | ✓ |
Part A & B deductibles | ✓ |
Foreign travel emergency | ✓ |
Medigap Plan C vs. Other Medigap Plans: The Face-Off
How did Medigap Plan C stack up against other Medigap plans? Here’s a snapshot:
Feature | Plan C | Plan A | Plan F | Plan G | Plan N |
Part A Coinsurance & hospital | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Part B coinsurance or copayment | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Blood (first 3 pints) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Part A hospice care coinsurance | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Skilled nursing facility care | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Part A deductible | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Part B deductible | ✓ | ✓ | |||
Foreign travel emergency | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
The Pros and Cons of Medigap Plan C
Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of Medigap Plan C is crucial. Here’s a chart to help you weigh your options:
Pros of Medigap Plan C | Cons of Medigap Plan C |
Comprehensive coverage for out-of-pocket costs | Not available to new Medicare beneficiaries as of 2020 |
Covers both Part A and Part B deductibles | Generally higher premiums than other Medigap plans |
Foreign travel emergency coverage | Does not cover Part B excess charges |
Expert Insights
According to the Medicare & You Handbook, it’s important to consider your healthcare needs, budget, and preferences when choosing a Medigap plan. Consulting an expert can also be invaluable.
Conclusion
Medigap Plan C offered comprehensive coverage for out-of-pocket costs, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. It is no longer available to those who were newly eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020. For those who were enrolled in Plan C before that date, it’s important to consider whether it continues to meet your needs. Consult the Medicare & You Handbook and consider speaking with an expert to explore other Medigap options if you are newly eligible for Medicare.