The short answer
Medigap Plan G is the best-selling Medicare Supplement for people newly enrolling, and for good reason: it covers nearly every gap Original Medicare leaves. After you pay the once-a-year Part B deductible, Plan G covers your Part A and Part B coinsurance, hospital costs, the Part A deductible, skilled nursing coinsurance, and even Part B excess charges. In practice, you pay your premium and the annual Part B deductible, and very little else for covered care.
The one thing Plan G does not cover is that annual Part B deductible — that's the sole gap, and it's the difference between Plan G and the now-closed Plan F.
What Plan G covers
Plan G covers Part A hospital coinsurance and an extra year of hospital coverage after Medicare ends, Part B coinsurance (the 20% Original Medicare leaves), the Part A deductible, the first three pints of blood, skilled nursing facility coinsurance, hospice coinsurance, Part B excess charges, and foreign travel emergency care up to plan limits. That's comprehensive coverage that makes your costs highly predictable.
Because benefits are standardized by law, a Plan G from one insurer is identical to a Plan G from another — only the premium differs. Our guide comparing Plan G and Plan N covers the main alternative.
What it costs and how to save
Since every Plan G offers identical benefits, the only variable is price — and premiums for the exact same coverage can differ meaningfully between carriers and change over time based on the pricing method. That means shopping matters: you can often get the same Plan G for less by comparing insurers.
Remember you'll also want a separate Part D drug plan, since Medigap doesn't include drug coverage. Our Medicare Supplement overview explains how to compare Plan G quotes and lock in your best rate during your open enrollment window.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Medigap Plan G cover?
Almost every gap in Original Medicare — Part A and B coinsurance, the Part A deductible, hospital and skilled nursing costs, Part B excess charges, and foreign travel emergencies. The only thing it doesn't cover is the annual Part B deductible.
Is Plan G worth it?
For many new enrollees, yes — it offers the most complete coverage available to new buyers, making costs predictable. You pay a premium and the annual Part B deductible, and little else for covered care.
Why do Plan G premiums differ between companies?
Benefits are standardized, so every Plan G is identical in coverage. Only the premium varies by insurer and pricing method, which is why shopping can get you the same coverage for less.
Free Consultation
Have Questions About Your Situation?
Every Medicare situation is different. Our Wyoming and Utah advisors provide free, personalized guidance — no pressure, no obligation.