by Russell Noga | Updated June 28th, 2024
Blue Cross Medicare Supplement Plan N Cost
Are you looking for a Medicare Supplement plan that offers a balance between comprehensive coverage and affordability? Look no further!
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) Medicare Supplement Plan N, also known as “Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Supplement Plan N cost,” may be the perfect solution for you.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the details of Plan N, compare it to other plans, and help you determine if it’s the right choice for your needs.
Short Summary
- Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Supplement Plan N offers balance between coverage and affordability, with copays for certain medical expenses but no out-of-pocket limits.
- The cost of BCBS Medicare Supplement Plan N can range from $80 to over $200 depending on age, location and health status.
- Utilizing in network providers and proactively planning for medical expenses are effective ways to manage out of pocket costs associated with the plan.
Medicare can be a maze of complex options and decisions, but finding the right medicare supplement insurance plan doesn’t have to be. BCBS Medicare Supplement Plan N is a popular choice for those seeking to balance Medicare benefits coverage and affordability, with copays for certain medical expenses. This plan offers:
- Coverage for the Medicare Part A deductible
- Coinsurance for Parts A and B
- Three pints of blood
- 80% coverage for medical costs incurred abroad
However, it does not offer coverage for the Medicare Part B deductible, its copays do not contribute to meeting the Part B deductible, and there are no out-of-pocket limits for Plan N.
Plan N may be most suitable for beneficiaries who do not require frequent office visits, physician, and emergency room visits throughout the year, as it offers a balance between Medicare coverage and affordability. Some potential drawbacks include copays for physician and ER visits, which can accumulate significantly over the course of the year.
Let’s dive deeper into the key features of Plan N and how it compares to other Medicare Supplement plans.
Key Features of Plan N
Plan N offers coverage of the Part A deductible and coinsurance, 80% of foreign travel medical costs, and three pints of blood.
However, it does not cover the Part B deductible, excess charges, out-of-pocket limits, or skilled nursing facilities. Copayments associated with Plan N include a $20 copayment for each physician visit and a $50 copayment for each emergency room (ER) visit that does not result in hospitalization.
Although Plan N does not provide coverage for the Medicare Part B deductible or out-of-pocket limits, it still offers a considerable amount of coverage for its beneficiaries. Knowing what is and isn’t covered by Plan N will help you make an informed decision when choosing a Medicare Supplement plan.
Comparing Plan N to Other Medicare Supplement Plans
When comparing Plan N to other Medicare Supplement plans, it’s essential to consider your individual needs and preferences. Plan G, for example, offers more extensive coverage but with a higher monthly premium than Plan N. Plan G covers all of the coverage gaps in Original Medicare, while Plan N covers some of the gaps but necessitates copays for physician and ER visits.
The cost disparity between Plan N and Plan G can be significant, with Plan N potentially offering savings of $50 per month on premiums. However, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each plan, as Plan G’s more comprehensive coverage and lack of copays for physician and ER visits may be more appealing to some individuals.
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The Cost of Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Supplement Plan N
The cost of BCBS Medicare Supplement Plan N varies depending on factors such as:
- age,
- location,
- and health status, with potential discounts and savings available.
Monthly premiums for Plan N can range from $80 to over $200.
To better understand the factors affecting Plan N premiums and the potential discounts and savings available, let’s explore them in more detail.
Factors Affecting Plan N Premiums
Several factors can influence the cost of Plan N premiums, including:
- Age
- Gender
- Location
- Tobacco use
Premiums tend to increase with age and are generally higher for males than for females. Location also plays a role in determining premium costs, as they can vary by state and even by county. Tobacco users typically face more expensive premiums than non-tobacco users.
As Plan N premiums can vary across different BCBS companies, it’s advisable to compare prices from different companies to determine the most cost-effective option.
By understanding the factors affecting Plan N premiums, you can make an informed decision when selecting a Medicare Supplement plan.
Potential Discounts and Savings
There are various discounts and savings available for Plan N, including:
- Household discounts: Members enrolled in the same plan and living in the same household may be eligible for household discounts.
- New Medicare Part B enrollee discounts: New Medicare Part B enrollees can benefit from discounts.
- Autopay discounts: Enrolling in autopay can provide additional savings through discounts.
These potential discounts and savings can help make Plan N more affordable for many individuals. It’s essential to explore all available options and discuss them with your insurance provider to maximize your savings on Plan N premiums.
How to Enroll in Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Supplement Plan N
Enrolling in BCBS Medicare Supplement Plan N is best done during the Open Enrollment Period or Special Enrollment Periods to ensure access to all plans and best prices.
Let’s take a closer look at these enrollment periods and how they can impact your access to Plan N and its pricing.
Open Enrollment Period
The Open Enrollment Period is a six-month window starting from the first day of the month when an individual turns 65 and is enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, you may transfer to an open plan of equal or lesser value without the need for underwriting, which means no medical exam is necessary.
Enrolling in Plan N during the Open Enrollment Period allows you to have access to all plans and optimal pricing, without the potential limitations imposed by underwriting. It’s essential to keep track of this period and make an informed decision on your Medicare Supplement plan within this timeframe.
Special Enrollment Periods
Special Enrollment Periods are opportunities for individuals who have experienced a change in their circumstances, such as a loss of employer-sponsored coverage, to enroll in a health insurance plan. Plan N has a special enrollment period of 60 days prior to and 63 days after the end of your previous coverage.
Other circumstances that may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period include losing employer-sponsored coverage or experiencing other qualifying life events. If you find yourself in one of these situations, be sure to take advantage of the Special Enrollment Period to enroll in Plan N and secure optimal pricing.
Evaluating Blue Cross Blue Shield as Your Medicare Supplement Insurance Provider
BCBS is one of the reputable private insurance companies offering Medicare Supplement insurance, providing personalized service and support, with additional benefits such as dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
With their Medigap coverage, you can ensure that your healthcare needs are met beyond the standard Medicare Supplement plans.
Let’s evaluate BCBS as your Medicare Supplement insurance provider and explore its reputation, customer satisfaction, and additional benefits and services.
Reputation and Customer Satisfaction
Blue Cross Blue Shield is widely recognized for its strong reputation and consistently high customer satisfaction ratings.
However, like any company, some complaints may arise from claim handling and customer service. It’s essential to take these factors into account when evaluating BCBS as your Medicare Supplement insurance provider.
Despite some reported issues, BCBS remains a top choice for many individuals seeking a Medicare Supplement plan due to its overall reputation and commitment to customer satisfaction. Carefully considering these aspects will help you make an informed decision when choosing an insurance provider.
Additional Benefits and Services
In addition to its Medicare Supplement plans, BCBS offers a range of additional benefits and services, such as wellness programs, discounts on health services, and 24/7 nurse helplines.
Some BCBS companies also provide add-on plans that include coverage for routine hearing exams and hearing aid purchases through TruHearing.
These extra benefits and services can be valuable for seniors seeking a comprehensive health insurance plan that goes beyond basic Medicare coverage. When evaluating BCBS as your Medicare Supplement insurance provider, it’s important to consider these additional benefits and how they can enhance your overall healthcare experience.
- Prescription drug coverage
- Vision and dental coverage
- Fitness and wellness programs
- Telehealth services
- Nurse helpline
- Travel assistance
These additional benefits, including lifetime maximum benefits, can provide added convenience, cost savings, and peace of mind for seniors.
Tips for Managing Out-of-Pocket Costs with Plan N
Managing out-of-pocket costs with Plan N involves utilizing in-network providers and planning for medical expenses. Let’s explore these strategies in more detail to help you minimize your out-of-pocket costs with Plan N.
In-network insurance providers are those who have agreed to accept the plan’s negotiated rate.
Utilizing In-Network Providers
One effective way to minimize out-of-pocket costs is by utilizing in-network providers. In-network providers are healthcare providers that have established a Medicare contract with a health insurance company to offer services to its members at a reduced rate.
They are more likely to accept Medicare assignment and not charge excess fees, thus helping to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
By choosing in-network providers, you can enjoy the following benefits:
Cost savings- Decreased out-of-pocket expenses
- Established referral networks
- Access to discounted rates for services
It’s crucial to stay informed about your insurance provider’s network and choose in-network providers whenever possible to manage your out-of-pocket costs effectively.
Planning for Medical Expenses
Another essential aspect of managing out-of-pocket costs with Plan N is planning for medical expenses. Budgeting for copays, deductibles, and coinsurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and ensure that you can cover your healthcare costs.
Additionally, considering supplemental coverage for services not covered by Plan N, such as preventive care or Part B excess charges, can help you manage your out-of-pocket costs more effectively.
By taking the time to plan for medical expenses and understand the costs associated with Plan N, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare and effectively manage your out-of-pocket costs.
Summary
In conclusion, BCBS Medicare Supplement Plan N offers a balance between comprehensive coverage and affordability, making it an attractive option for many individuals.
Understanding the key features of Plan N, comparing it to other plans, and managing out-of-pocket costs effectively can help you make the most of your healthcare coverage.
By evaluating BCBS as your Medicare Supplement insurance provider and considering the additional benefits and services they offer, you can make an informed decision that best suits your healthcare needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much is Medicare Plan N?
The average cost of Medicare Supplement Plan N in 2023 is around $120-$180 per month, but rates vary from state to state and are affected by factors such as age, gender, and current health status.
This monthly cost is in addition to Original Medicare Parts A and B.
What are the disadvantages of Plan N?
Plan N comes with a significant drawback, as it does not provide coverage for certain expenses such as Part B excess charges and foreign travel emergency care.
It also doesn’t cover Part A deductible and Part B copayment or coinsurance.
What is Medicare Supplement Plan N?
Medicare Supplement Plan. N is a coverage plan that helps pay for the out-of-pocket expenses not covered by Medicare Parts A and B. It offers near-comprehensive benefits similar to Medigap Plans C and F, but with lower premiums.
What is the coverage offered by BCBS Medicare Supplement Plan N?
Plan N from BCBS Medicare Supplement offers coverage for the Medicare Part A deductible, coinsurance for Parts A and B, three pints of blood, and 80% of medical costs incurred during foreign travel, but not the Part B deductible, excess charges, or out-of-pocket limits.
However, it does not cover the Part B deductible, excess charges, or out-of-pocket limits.
How does Plan N compare to other Medicare Supplement plans, such as Plan G?
Plan N is more affordable than Plan G, but provides less coverage, requiring copays for physician and ER visits.
Find the Right Medicare Plan for You
Finding the right Medicare Plan 2024 doesn’t have to be confusing. Whether it’s a Medigap plan, or you want to know more about Blue Cross Medicare Supplement Plan N Cost, we can help.
Call us today at 1-888-891-0229 and one of our knowledgeable, licensed insurance agents will be happy to assist you!
Russell Noga is the CEO and Medicare editor of Medisupps.com. His 15 years of experience in the Medicare insurance market includes being a licensed Medicare insurance broker in all 50 states. He is frequently featured as a featured as a keynote Medicare event speaker, has authored hundreds of Medicare content pages, and hosts the very popular Medisupps.com Medicare Youtube channel. His expertise includes Medicare, Medigap insurance, Medicare Advantage plans, and Medicare Part D.