Medicare Supplement Plan G: Your Guide to “Zero-Surprise” Healthcare
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is a great start, but it leaves significant “gaps”—like the 20% coinsurance you pay for doctor visits and hospital stays. Medigap Plan G is designed to step in and pay those bills for you, providing the most comprehensive coverage available to new Medicare members today.
How Plan G Works
Think of Plan G as a “shield” for your savings. Once you pay one small annual deductible, your plan takes over 100% of your Medicare-approved medical bills.
- You pay the Part B Deductible: In 2026, this is $283 for the entire year.
- Plan G pays the rest: After that first $283, you pay $0 for Medicare-approved doctor visits, surgeries, lab work, and hospital stays.
- Freedom of Choice: You can see any doctor in the U.S. who accepts Medicare. No networks, no referrals, and no “prior authorizations” required.
Why Plan G is Your Best Option
While other plans exist, Plan G remains the “Gold Standard” for three reasons:
- Total Predictability: You’ll never have to guess what a surgery or specialist visit will cost. Your only medical expense for the year (after your premium) is the $283 deductible.
- Excess Charge Protection: Some doctors charge up to 15% above the Medicare-approved rate. Plan G is one of the only plans that covers these “Excess Charges” in full.
- Travel Peace of Mind: Plan G includes Foreign Travel Emergency coverage, paying 80% of costs for medical emergencies outside the U.S. (up to plan limits).
The Hazard of Waiting: Why Now is the Best Time
There is a “Golden Window” to buy a Medigap plan, and missing it can be a costly mistake.
- No Medical Questions Today: When you first turn 65 (or join Part B), you have a 6-month Open Enrollment Period. During this time, insurance companies must sell you a policy at the best price, regardless of your health history.
- Medical Underwriting Later: If you wait and try to sign up later, companies can “underwrite” you. This means they can look at your medical records and:
- Charge you a much higher monthly premium.
- Deny you coverage entirely based on pre-existing conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or even minor health changes.
- Locked-In Access: Once you are in a Medigap plan, your coverage is guaranteed renewable. As long as you pay your premium, the insurance company can never cancel your plan because of your health.
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Plan G vs. The Alternatives
| Feature | Medigap Plan G | Medicare Advantage |
| Doctor Choice | Any doctor in the U.S. | Limited Network (HMO/PPO) |
| Referrals | Never needed | Usually required for specialists |
| Out-of-Pocket Costs | $283 annual max | Up to $9,000+ per year |
| Predictability | High (Flat monthly premium) | Low (Pay-as-you-go copays) |
The Bottom Line: If you want the freedom to choose your own doctors and the security of knowing exactly what your healthcare will cost each year, Plan G is the smartest choice for your retirement.
If you have a home in Arizona and would like a quote or have questions on Medicare Plan G we can help!
Andy Orlikoff
American Insurance Benefits
623-742-3878