What Is Medigap Plan D?

Medigap Plan D is a Medicare Supplement Plan that helps cover the gaps in coverage not covered by Original Medicare. There are 10 different Medigap plans available in North Carolina. Medigap Plan D offers more coverage than Medigap Plan A or Medigap Plan B, but not as many benefits as you can get if you purchase Medigap Plan C, Medigap Plan F, or Medigap Plan G.

It's important to realize that Medigap Plan D is a different plan from Medicare Part D, which provides coverage for prescription drugs. Though their names are very similar, Medigap plans do not provide coverage for any prescription drugs. 

Medigap Plan D Coverage

Compared to the other types of Medigap plans available, Plan D coverage offers a medium level of coverage. Typical benefits include: 

• Part A hospital coinsurance 

• Part A hospital costs (up to an additional 365 days after using your Original Medicare benefits)

• Part A deductible 

• Part A hospice care copayment

• Part B copayment

• Your first three pints of blood for a medical procedure

• Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance

• 80% of travel emergency costs when you're overseas (up to the limits of your plan)

What Medigap Plan D doesn't cover

Unlike some other Medigap plans, Plan D doesn’t provide any coverage for the Medicare Part B deductible or Part B excess charges. Medicare Part B excess charges occur when a physician doesn’t accept Medicare assignments. This means they can charge up to 15% over the amount approved by Medicare. 

You're left with the excess charge payable when you subtract the Medicare-approved amount from the total bill. While Plan D doesn't cover these excess charges, both Medigap Plans F and G do offer coverage. If you're worried about managing your out-of-pocket health care expenses, then it’s worth considering your options. It's a good idea to talk to one of our North Carolina local Medicare agents who can help you choose the right plan for your needs.

Find out more about Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans

If you need more information about what is a Medigap plan or want to find out the best Medigap plans for you, get in touch with our dedicated team. At Health Plans of NC, our experienced agents offer plenty of information and advice about the various Medigap plans available to North Carolina residents. Call us today or compare plans online.