Should I Change My Medicare Supplement Plan? Exploring Your Options

Should I change my Medicare Supplement Plan? Learn about switching from Plan G to Plan N, High Deductible Plan G, or Medicare Advantage — and what to know about rules in different states.
In our last discussion about health plan utilization , we looked at how often you use your Medicare Supplement coverage and how that can influence your decision to keep or change your plan.
If you’ve decided your current coverage may no longer be the perfect fit, the next question becomes:
What are your options — and how do you make the switch?

1. Switching from Plan G to Plan N

Plan G is one of the most comprehensive Medicare Supplement plans, covering nearly all costs except the Part B deductible. But its premiums can be higher than some people need, especially if they’re in good health.
Why consider Plan N?
  •  Lower monthly premium compared to Plan G.
  • Same coverage for Hospital and most medical services.
  • A few differences: you may pay up to $20 for a primary care visit, up to $50 for an ER visit (waived if admitted), and you’re responsible for Medicare Part B “excess charges” if your provider bills them.
Important:
  •  In states like New York , you can change Medicare Supplement plans at any time without answering health questions — it’s called guaranteed issue .
  • In most other states , changing plans after your initial enrollment requires medical underwriting , meaning the insurance company can ask health questions and could denyyour application or charge more based on health history.

2. Switching from Traditional Plan G to High Deductible Plan G

If you like the full coverage of Plan G but want a lower premium, the High Deductible Plan G might be a good option.
How it works:
  • You pay a much lower monthly premium.
  • Before your plan starts paying, you cover costs up to the annual deductible ($2,800 in2025).
  • Once you hit the deductible, coverage works just like a regular Plan G.
Best for:
  • People in good health who don’t expect many medical expenses but still want strong protection in case of a major event.

3. Considering Medicare Advantage

Some people enroll in a Medicare Supplement when they first turn 65 and never look at other options. But if you’re hardly using your coverage, Medicare Advantage (Part C) could be worth exploring.
Key differences:
  •  Often $0 or low monthly premium (you still pay your Part B premium).
  • Includes hospital and medical coverage, plus extras like dental, vision, hearing, and gymmemberships.
  • Usually has a provider network (HMO or PPO).
  • Has an annual maximum out-of-pocket limit for medical costs.
Best for:
  •  People who don’t mind using a network of doctors.
  • Those looking to reduce premiums and get additional benefits.

4. When You Can Make a Change

The ability to change depends on where you live and what type of plan you’re moving to :
  • From one Supplement plan to another:
    ○ Guaranteed issue states (like New York) — change anytime without healthquestions.
    ○ Other states — most changes require medical underwriting.
  • From a Supplement to Medicare Advantage:
    ○ You can switch during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7).
    ○ Some people may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

5. Things to Consider Before Switching

Changing your Medicare coverage is not just about saving money — it’s about making sure the plan still works for you.
Ask yourself:
  1. How often do I use my coverage now?
  2. What would my costs look like under the new plan in both a healthy year and a bad” health year?
  3. Am I willing to take on more out-of-pocket risk for a lower monthly premium?
  4. Will my doctors and hospitals be covered if I choose Medicare Advantage?
  5. Could my health change in ways that make switching back harder later?

Bottom Line

Whether you’re a “Frequent Flyer” who visits multiple doctors each month or someone who rarely needs care, your Medicare Supplement should match your current needs and budget.
If your health has changed — for better or worse — it may be the perfect time to look at Plan N , High Deductible Plan G , or even Medicare Advantage . The right choice is the one that balances peace of mind, cost, and flexibility for the way you live now and the years ahead.

Choosing the Right Medicare Coverage

Selecting the best Medicare coverage depends on factors like your healthcare needs, budget, and preferred providers. You can choose between:
  • Original Medicare (Parts A & B): Allows you to see any doctor or
    hospital that accepts Medicare but does not include prescription drug
    coverage (Part D) or additional benefits.
  • Medicare Advantage (Part C): Offers bundled coverage with
    potential extra benefits but may require using a network of providers.
  • Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance): Helps cover
    out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare, such as
    copayments and deductibles.

Key Medicare Enrollment Periods

It is crucial to enroll in Medicare at the right time to avoid penalties and ensure continuous coverage:
  • Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): A seven-month window starting
    three months before your 65th birthday month.
  • General Enrollment Period (GEP): From January 1 to March 31
    each year for those who missed their IEP.
  • Annual Election Period (AEP): From October 15 to December 7,
    allowing you to switch or enroll in Medicare Advantage and Part D
    plans.
  • Open Enrollment Period(OEP): From January 1 to March 31 for
    those who missed AEP and want to make certain changes.
  • Special Enrollment Period(SEP): Can be used anytime during the
    calendar year for those that meet certain criteria such as moving to a
    new service area.

Finding Help with Medicare

Understanding Medicare can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Licensed Insurance Brokers, Medicare.gov, and state health assistance programs can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.
By taking the time to explore your Medicare options, you can make informed decisions that ensure you receive the healthcare coverage that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
Do I have to sign up for Medicare?
It depends upon your current coverage. If you are employed and your employer has over 20 employees then you can delay signing up for Medicare and avoid penalties.
No, You will have to enroll in a stand alone Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan(Part C) to get coverage.
There are no networks with Medicare and most doctors and hospitals accept it. However, Medicare does not cover 100% of services so a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plans is advisable.

Mike Miligi- Owner

For over 10 years, Mike has been assisting Seniors and other Medicare-eligible individuals in understanding the ins and outs of Medicare and Medicare Health Insurance options, including Medicare Advantage Plans(Part C), Medicare Supplement Plans(Medigap), Prescription Drug Plans(PartD), and Dental and Vision programs.
Mike is Licensed in seven States and Certified with 11 Insurance Carriers. He has helped thousands of individuals decide on the best course of action for their particular Health Insurance needs. Because Mike is an Independent Medicare Health Insurance Broker, he works for the client, not the Insurance Carriers, and is able to provide his clients with accurate and unbiased Health Insurance options.
Mike recertifies with CMS(The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) annually, regularly completes Continuing Education Courses required by individual State Insurance Departments, and keeps abreast of industry trends and standards to offer his clients the most up-to-date information.
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