Why You Shouldn’t be Afraid of High-Deductible Medigap Plan G

When it comes to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, Plan G is a popular choice due to its robust coverage. However, many people overlook the high-deductible version of Plan G.

Whether it’s due to apprehension over the word “high-deductible” or simply not knowing how it works— you’re doing yourself a disservice by not exploring this option. Here’s how High-Deductible Plan G works and why it’s worth considering.

How Does High-Deductible Plan G Work?

High-Deductible Plan G is a Medigap plan that works alongside Original Medicare. It offers the same standardized benefits as regular Plan G, but with one important difference—you must meet a deductible ($2,950 in year 2026) before the plan begins paying benefits. But this doesn’t mean that you’re completely on your own! Keep in mind that you’ll still share your costs with Original Medicare until your Medigap plan kicks in.

What Does High-Deductible Plan G Cover?

After the deductible is met, High-Deductible Plan G covers the same expenses as standard Plan G, including:

• Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs
• Medicare Part B coinsurance or copayments
• Blood benefit (first 3 pints)
• Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayments
• Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance
• Part A deductible
• Part B excess charges
• Foreign travel emergency coverage, up to plan limits

Like standard Plan G, High-Deductible Plan G does not cover the Medicare Part B deductible.

How Much Does High-Deductible Plan G Cost?

The monthly premium for High-Deductible Plan G can be as low as $36¹ in some areas. Of course, rates depend on a variety of factors, which may include gender, age, health, carrier, and residential zip code.

The best way to get accurate pricing information is to contact your AMAC Medicare advisor. Not only can they compare multiple carriers and send you live quotes, but they can also check to see if you qualify for any discounts to lower your premium even further.

^{1: Based on rates for a 65-year-old female, nonsmoker, in zip code 28761.}

Who’s a Good Candidate for High-Deductible Plan G?

High-Deductible Plan G may be a good fit for someone who:

• Wants lower monthly premiums
• Prefers the flexibility of a Medigap plan
• Is comfortable paying out of pocket before benefits begin
• Lives in a state where Medigap plans tend to have higher premiums (like New York or Florida)

Is High-Deductible Plan G a good choice for everyone? No. However, it may appeal to people who are comfortable with more upfront cost-sharing in exchange for lower premiums.

If you’re stuck paying $300 a month for your current policy, you’re already paying $3,600 a year in premiums alone, whether you use your coverage or not! A High-Deductible Plan G could significantly reduce that guaranteed monthly expense.

The Bottom Line

High-Deductible Plan G can be a practical option for Medicare beneficiaries who want lower monthly premiums while still maintaining strong protection. It offers the same standardized benefits as Plan G once the deductible is satisfied, but it requires careful planning for upfront out-of-pocket costs.

Choosing the right Medigap plan depends on your health needs, budget, and comfort level with risk. Reviewing your options before enrolling can help you find coverage that fits your lifestyle and financial goals.

For help with Medicare plans – or any questions you may have about Medicare – contact AMAC’s Medicare Advisory Service at 1-855-611-4856 or request a quote below.