Medicare Supplement Plan F Cost: A Comprehensive Guide

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Medicare Supplement Plan F is one of the most popular plans, but its cost can be a concern for many. The average annual premium for Plan F is around $2,300.

This cost is significantly higher than other Medicare Supplement plans, such as Plan N, which has a lower premium of around $1,700 per year. However, Plan F offers more comprehensive coverage.

Plan F is often considered a good option for those who want to avoid paying out-of-pocket costs for medical expenses, including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

Medicare Supplement Plan F Cost

Plan F costs can vary depending on your location, with some zip codes affecting your rate more than others.

On average, Plan F costs range from $150 to $250.

Your age is a significant factor in determining your Plan F premium, with older individuals typically paying more.

Gender also plays a role in setting your rate, with some insurance companies charging more for men than women.

Some insurance companies have higher rates than others for Plan F, so it's essential to shop around for the best deal.

Plan F vs. Other Options

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Medicare Supplement Plan F is a popular option, but it's not the only choice. If you're not eligible for Plan F, you might consider Medigap Plan G as a close alternative.

Plan G covers everything Plan F does except for the Medicare Part B deductible. This means you'll still have to pay for that deductible out of pocket.

You can compare Medicare Supplement plans' costs and coverage to decide what plan would work best for you.

Vs. Advantage

Medicare Advantage plans combine the benefits of Original Medicare with additional benefits, like prescription drug coverage. You'll have to use doctors and hospitals within the plan's network, which can limit your choices.

A person with a Medicare Advantage plan may pay a premium, copays, and a deductible. This can add up quickly, so be sure to factor it into your budget.

Medicare Advantage plans don't offer the same flexibility as Medicare Supplement plans, which are accepted by any doctor and hospital that accepts Medicare. This means you can see your preferred doctor or specialist without worrying about network restrictions.

Medicare Supplement plans don't include prescription drug coverage, so you'll need to purchase a standalone plan if you want to fill your prescriptions.

Medigap Alternatives

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If you're not eligible for Medigap Plan F, Plan G is the closest alternative, covering everything except the Medicare Part B deductible.

Plan G is a viable option for those who want similar coverage to Plan F, but keep in mind that plans sold to new members can't include the Medicare Part B deductible.

You can compare Medicare Supplement plans' costs and coverage to decide what plan would work best for you.

No Longer an Option

Medicare Plan F is no longer an option for most people.

The government phased out Plan F as part of the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act of 2015.

Plan F's first dollar coverage was seen as a potential money pit for the Medicare program.

By requiring a deductible, the insured has a stake in making sure their visit to the doctor justifies the cost.

This change went into effect on January 1, 2020.

If you became eligible to enroll in Medicare before then, you might still be able to join Plan F.

It all depends on when you became eligible to enroll in Medicare.

Plan F Features and Coverage

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Plan F is the most comprehensive Medigap plan available, covering a wide range of expenses. It's available in most states, although there are some exceptions.

Here are some key features and coverages of Plan F:

  • Part A coinsurance and hospital costs up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are used up.
  • Part A deductible.
  • Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment.
  • Part B coinsurance or copayment.
  • Part B deductible (although new Medicare members can't buy plans that cover this, it's still available for current beneficiaries enrolled in Plan C and F).
  • Part B excess charges (if a provider charges more than Medicare's approved amount).
  • Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance.
  • Blood transfusion (first three pints).
  • Emergency health care services for the first 60 days when traveling outside the U.S.

Plan F also offers coverage for foreign travel emergency expenses, covering 80% of these costs.

What Is Medicare Supplement Plan F

Medicare Supplement Plan F is a popular choice among beneficiaries, and for good reason. It offers a wide range of coverage and benefits.

Plan F covers the Part A deductible, which is $1,676 per benefit period in 2025.

In addition to covering the Part A deductible, Plan F also covers Part A hospital coinsurance, plus an extra 365 days of coverage after your Part A benefits are exhausted.

Plan F also covers hospice coinsurance, skilled nursing coinsurance, and the first 3 pints of blood in a Medicare-approved procedure.

You'll also have coverage for Part B coinsurance and copayments, as well as Part B excess charges.

Plan F even covers 80% of foreign travel emergency expenses, which can be a huge relief for those who travel abroad.

Coverage Included

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Plan F offers some of the most comprehensive coverage available, making it a popular choice among Medicare beneficiaries.

Part A deductible is covered, with a cost of $1,676 per benefit period in 2025.

Part B deductible is also covered, at a cost of $257 per year in 2025.

Plan F covers Part A hospital coinsurance, plus an extra 365 days of coverage after your Part A benefits are exhausted.

Hospice coinsurance is covered, so you can focus on your care without worrying about the costs.

Skilled nursing coinsurance is also covered, which can be a huge relief for those needing extended care.

The first 3 pints of blood in a Medicare-approved procedure are covered, which can be a significant cost savings.

Part B coinsurance and copayments are covered, so you can receive the care you need without breaking the bank.

Part B excess charges are covered, which can be a big help if you need to see a provider who charges more than Medicare's approved amount.

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Foreign travel emergency expenses are covered, up to 80%, which can be a lifesaver if you need medical care while traveling abroad.

Here's a summary of the coverages included in Plan F:

  • Part A deductible: $1,676 per benefit period in 2025
  • Part B deductible: $257 per year in 2025
  • Part A hospital coinsurance, plus extra 365 days of coverage
  • Hospice coinsurance
  • Skilled nursing coinsurance
  • First 3 pints of blood in a Medicare-approved procedure
  • Part B coinsurance and copayments
  • Part B excess charges
  • 80% of foreign travel emergency expenses

Plan F Cost and Value

Plan F costs vary depending on your zip code, age, and gender, with premiums ranging from $150 to $250 on average.

Some insurance companies have higher rates than others, so it's essential to shop around for quotes.

A 75-year-old female nonsmoker in Atlanta can expect to pay between $166 and $509 per month for Plan F, which is among the average costs for major U.S. metro areas.

Premiums for Plan F are set by private health insurance companies, even though the plans are regulated by the government.

You can also opt for a high-deductible Plan F in some states, which provides the same benefits after a deductible of $2,870 in 2025 is paid, with monthly premiums ranging from $53 to $77 for a 75-year-old nonsmoker in Atlanta.

How Much Does It Cost?

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Plan F costs vary widely depending on your age, location, and other factors. For a 75-year-old female nonsmoker in Atlanta, premiums range from $166 to $509 per month.

Your zip code, age, and gender all play a large part in setting your rate. Some insurance companies have higher rates than others.

Premiums for Medicare Supplement Plan F are set by the private health insurance companies that sell it. This means that prices can differ significantly between companies.

In some states, you can opt for a high-deductible Plan F, which provides the same benefits after a deductible of $2,870 in 2025 is paid. Monthly premiums for this plan in Atlanta range from $53 to $77.

Plan F costs can be substantial, with average costs ranging from $150 to $250 per month. However, this is just an estimate, and your actual premium will depend on your unique circumstances.

Is It Worth It?

Medicare Supplement Plan F offers a lot of coverage, but it's not necessarily the best value.

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Sometimes lower Plan G premiums might outweigh the cost of losing coverage for the Medicare Part B deductible, for example.

The key to determining whether Plan F is worth it is to compare quotes and find the best option for you.

You should consider the cost of Plan F against the benefits it provides, and see if it's a good fit for your needs.

Losing coverage for the Medicare Part B deductible might not be a deal-breaker for everyone, but it's something to think about.

Ultimately, the decision to choose Plan F or not depends on your individual circumstances and priorities.

Plan F Availability and Enrollment

Plan F is no longer available for sale to new Medicare members. This is because the law changed, and it's no longer possible to enroll in a plan with Part B deductible coverage, like Plan F.

You can join other Medicare Supplement plans, but keep in mind that prices may go up or you may be denied coverage due to your health status or medical history if you enroll outside of your Medigap open enrollment period.

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Your Medigap open enrollment period starts once you're 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B, and lasts for six months. This is the best time to sign up for a Medigap plan, as prices are cheapest and easiest to get during this period.

Here's a breakdown of the different Medigap plans, including their coverage levels and prices:

If you were eligible to enroll in Plan F before the cutoff date, you can still enroll in it. However, it's essential to consider your state's laws regarding changing plans without medical underwriting, as this may affect your premiums or application denial.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Medigap Plan F being discontinued?

Medigap Plan F is being discontinued due to concerns that its comprehensive coverage may lead to overuse and increased costs for the Medicare program. This change aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of Medicare.

Who qualifies for Medigap Plan F?

You qualify for Medigap Plan F if your 65th birthday occurred before January 1, 2020, or you became eligible for Medicare due to a disability before that date. This plan offers unique benefits, including paying the Medicare Part B deductible.

What is the maximum out of pocket for Medigap Plan F?

For Medigap Plan F, the maximum out-of-pocket cost is $0 annually, making it a highly cost-effective option. This means you'll have no additional expenses beyond your Medicare premiums.

Sean Dooley

Lead Writer

Sean Dooley is a seasoned writer with a passion for crafting engaging content. With a strong background in research and analysis, Sean has developed a keen eye for detail and a talent for distilling complex information into clear, concise language. Sean's portfolio includes a wide range of articles on topics such as accounting services, where he has demonstrated a deep understanding of financial concepts and a ability to communicate them effectively to diverse audiences.

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