MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT COMPARISON · 2026
Medicare Plan G vs Plan N:
Which Is Better in 2026?
Side-by-side comparison of Medigap Plan G and Plan N for Rhode Island beneficiaries. Real premium ranges, copays, and coverage differences.
The Short Answer
Both Plan G and Plan N are Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans that pair with Original Medicare. They fill the "gaps" in Medicare Parts A and B — things like the 20% coinsurance, hospital copays, and blood.
Plan G is the most comprehensive Medigap plan available to people newly eligible for Medicare. It pays everything after you meet the annual Part B deductible ($257 in 2026), including Part B excess charges.
Plan N has lower monthly premiums in exchange for small copays ($20 office, up to $50 ER that doesn't become an admission) and no coverage of Part B excess charges.
For most Rhode Island Medicare beneficiaries, the deciding factor is: do you want lower monthly cost (Plan N) or predictable zero-out-of-pocket visits (Plan G)?
Plan G vs Plan N Coverage (2026)
| Coverage | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Typical RI monthly premium (age 65) | $140–$210 (estimate) | $105–$165 (estimate) |
| Medicare Part A coinsurance & hospital costs | 100% | 100% |
| Medicare Part B coinsurance or copayment | 100% | 100% (after copays) |
| Blood (first 3 pints) | 100% | 100% |
| Part A hospice coinsurance/copay | 100% | 100% |
| Skilled nursing facility coinsurance | 100% | 100% |
| Part A deductible | 100% | 100% |
| Part B deductible ($257 in 2026) | Not covered | Not covered |
| Part B excess charges | 100% | Not covered |
| Office visit copay | $0 | Up to $20 |
| Emergency room copay (no admission) | $0 | Up to $50 |
| Foreign travel emergency | 80% (up to plan limits) | 80% (up to plan limits) |
Premium ranges are typical Rhode Island estimates for a healthy, non-tobacco 65-year-old in 2026. Actual rates vary by carrier, ZIP code, and underwriting. Not a guarantee of coverage.
Which Plan Fits You?
Choose Plan G if…
- ✓ You visit doctors or specialists frequently
- ✓ You want zero out-of-pocket after the Part B deductible
- ✓ You see providers who don't always accept Medicare assignment
- ✓ You travel internationally often
- ✓ You prefer budget certainty over the lowest premium
Choose Plan N if…
- ✓ You're generally healthy with few doctor visits
- ✓ You want the lowest Medigap premium available
- ✓ Your doctors accept Medicare assignment (most RI providers do)
- ✓ You can comfortably handle $20 copays at visits
- ✓ You want to save $30–$60/month vs Plan G
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Plan G and Plan N?
Plan G pays Medicare Part B excess charges; Plan N does not. Plan N has small copays (up to $20 for office visits, $50 for ER visits that don't result in admission); Plan G has no copays after the Part B deductible. Plan N premiums are typically lower than Plan G in Rhode Island.
Is Plan G or Plan N better in 2026?
Plan G is usually better for beneficiaries who want predictable out-of-pocket costs and visit doctors frequently. Plan N is typically better for healthier beneficiaries who want lower monthly premiums and don't mind small copays. In Rhode Island, Plan N can save $30–$60/month over Plan G.
Does Plan N cover Medicare Part B excess charges?
No. Plan N does not pay Part B excess charges. If you see a provider who does not accept Medicare assignment, you could pay up to 15% above the Medicare-approved amount out of pocket. Plan G covers these charges in full.
What are Plan N's copays?
Plan N charges up to $20 for each office visit and up to $50 for emergency room visits that do not result in an inpatient admission. There are no copays for preventive services covered under Medicare Part B.
How much does Plan G cost in Rhode Island for 2026?
Plan G premiums in Rhode Island typically range from $140 to $210 per month for a 65-year-old in 2026, depending on the carrier, ZIP code, and tobacco use. Plan N typically runs $105 to $165 per month. These are estimates; actual rates vary by carrier.
Do both plans cover foreign travel emergencies?
Yes. Both Plan G and Plan N cover 80% of billed charges for emergency care during the first 60 days of foreign travel, up to a $50,000 lifetime maximum, after a $250 deductible.
Related Medicare Resources
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