by Russell Noga | Updated August 29th, 2023
Medicare Plan G Plus
Are you looking for a Medicare Supplement plan that offers more than just basic coverage? Enter “What is Medicare Plan G Plus”, a new Medicare Supplement offering from Blue Cross and Blue Shield that provides innovative benefits and comprehensive protection.
In this blog post, you’ll learn about the unique features of Medicare Plan G Plus and compare it to other Medicare Supplement options, helping you make an informed decision about your healthcare coverage.
Short Summary
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s Plan G Plus provides seniors with comprehensive coverage and innovative benefits such as dental, vision, hearing aid & fitness access.
- Plan G Plus guarantees eligibility during the Open Enrollment Period without restrictions based on health status or claims experience.
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield provide support & resources to individuals with Plan G Plus coverage to navigate their plan confidently.
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Understanding Medicare Plan G Plus
As a new Medicare Supplement offering from Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Plan G Plus is designed to complement the federal Medicare program by providing additional benefits such as :
- dental
- vision
- hearing
- and fitness access to eligible individuals
This plan covers most of what Medicare does not cover, including copayments for hospitalizations and skilled nursing facility stays, medical expenses such as doctor’s visits, physical therapy, and diagnostic tests, as well as excess charges above Medicare-approved amounts.
Plan G Plus was developed in response to seniors’ requests for more comprehensive coverage, including dental, hearing, and vision benefits, while maintaining the same medical coverage as the traditional Plan G for 2024.
What is Plan G Plus?
Plan G Plus is an augmented version of the customary Medicare Supplement Plan G, offering additional benefits such as:
- Dental coverage
- Hearing coverage
- Vision coverage
- Fitness coverage
All of these additional benefits come with a slightly higher premium.
With Plan G Plus, seniors can enjoy comprehensive protection that addresses their health concerns without sacrificing the essential medical coverage provided by the traditional Plan G.
Dental coverage in Plan G Plus, for example, includes oral cancer screening, unlimited extractions, and restorative services.
This enhanced plan provides added value and potential savings, making it a worthwhile investment for seniors in need of top-quality healthcare coverage.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for Plan G Plus, individuals must be 65 years or older, or under 65 with disabilities, and enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B.
The plan includes additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, and fitness access through the SilverSneakers® program.
With its comprehensive coverage and innovative benefits, Plan G Plus is tailored to meet the diverse needs of seniors, ensuring they receive the best possible healthcare protection throughout their retirement years.
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Innovative Benefits of Plan G Plus
Plan G. Plus stands out from other Medicare Supplement plans by offering innovative benefits that provide added value and potential savings to its members.
These benefits cater to the specific health concerns of seniors, ensuring they receive comprehensive coverage that addresses their unique needs.
Some of the benefits of Plan G Plus include:
- Estimated annual savings of $785-$1,729
- Comprehensive coverage for medical expenses
- Access to a wide network of healthcare providers
- Additional benefits such as vision and dental coverage
With these advantages, Plan G Plus offers the same benefits as traditional Medicare Supplement options but with significant improvements.
From dental and vision coverage to advanced hearing aids and fitness access, Plan G Plus provides a wide range of services designed to enhance the overall health and well-being of seniors.
Let’s take a closer look at these innovative benefits.
Dental Coverage
Dental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, and Plan G Plus ensures that its members receive comprehensive dental coverage, including dental preventive services cleanings. This encompasses:
- Preventive services such as examinations and X-rays
- Oral cancer screenings
- Unlimited extractions
- Restorative services
With the dental benefits offered by Plan G Plus, seniors can maintain their oral health and avoid costly out-of-pocket expenses that may arise from dental procedures.
Vision and Hearing Aid Coverage
Vision and hearing are essential components of a senior’s quality of life, and Plan G Plus provides comprehensive coverage to ensure that its members receive the care they need.
The plan includes:
- routine eye exams,
- eyeglasses or contact lenses,
- and advanced/premium hearing aids.
With this level of vision and hearing aid coverage, seniors can enjoy the peace of mind knowing that they have access to essential healthcare services that cater to their unique needs.
Fitness Access
Staying active is vital for maintaining overall health and well-being, especially for seniors.
Plan G. Plus offers aid fitness access through the SilverSneakers® program, providing members with access to over 16,000 fitness centers nationwide.
This program encourages seniors to stay active and engage in regular physical activity, promoting a healthy lifestyle and preventing potential health issues related to inactivity.
With the SilverSneakers® program, seniors can enjoy a wide range of fitness options, from group exercise classes to individual workouts, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to maintain an active lifestyle.
Comparing Plan G Plus with Other Medicare Supplement Plans
When choosing a Medicare Supplement plan, it’s essential to compare the available options to determine which plan best meets your healthcare needs.
Plan G Plus offers a competitive alternative to other Medicare Supplement plans, providing innovative benefits and comprehensive coverage that sets it apart from traditional options.
By comparing Plan G Plus with other Medicare Supplement plans, such as Plan G and Medicare Advantage, individuals can make an informed decision about their healthcare coverage and ensure they receive the highest level of protection and support.
Plan G vs. Plan G Plus
Both Plan G and Plan G Plus are Medicare Supplement insurance plans offered by Blue Cross and Blue Shield, providing identical medical coverage.
However, Plan G Plus offers additional advantages beyond what Plan G covers, including:
- Dental coverage
- Hearing coverage
- Vision coverage
- Fitness coverage
While the premium for Plan G Plus may be slightly higher than that of Plan G, the additional benefits can result in significant annual savings, estimated at $785-$1,729.
This makes Plan G Plus a worthwhile investment for seniors seeking comprehensive healthcare coverage that goes beyond the basics provided by traditional Medicare Supplement plans.
Plan G Plus vs. Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans are an alternative to Original Medicare, where private insurance companies provide benefits instead of Medicare.
These plans often include prescription drug coverage and may have lower out-of-pocket costs but may also have a more limited network of providers.
Plan G. Plus offers comprehensive coverage with additional benefits such as:
- Dental
- Hearing
- Vision
- Fitness access
This makes it a competitive option when compared to Medicare Advantage plans. By considering the unique features and benefits of Plan G Plus, individuals can make an informed decision about their healthcare coverage and choose the plan that best meets their needs.
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Enrollment Periods and Guaranteed Eligibility
Understanding the enrollment periods and guaranteed eligibility for Plan G Plus is essential when considering this Medicare Supplement plan.
The enrollment period for Plan G Plus is the six-month open enrollment period commencing on the first day of the month in which an individual attains the age of 65 and enrolls in Part B.
During this time, eligibility for Plan G Plus is guaranteed, allowing individuals to secure comprehensive coverage without facing restrictions, conditions, or price discrimination based on health status, claims experience, or medical conditions.
Enrollment Periods
The enrollment period for Plan G Plus consists of a 6-month window, beginning at age 65 or within 6 months of enrolling in Medicare Part B.
This window provides individuals ample time to evaluate their healthcare needs and make an informed decision about their Medicare Supplement coverage.
During this enrollment period, individuals can also make modifications to their coverage annually from October 15 to December 7, ensuring they receive the most suitable healthcare protection to meet their evolving needs.
Guaranteed Eligibility
Guaranteed eligibility for Plan G Plus is available during the Open Enrollment Period when enrolled in Medicare Part B.
This means that individuals who enroll in Plan G Plus during this time cannot be denied coverage, face conditions, or experience price discrimination based on their health status, claims experience, or medical conditions.
By providing guaranteed eligibility, Plan G Plus ensures that individuals have access to comprehensive healthcare coverage regardless of their health status or medical history, offering peace of mind and protection when it’s needed most.
Premium Discounts
Eligible Plan G Plus members may be entitled to premium discounts, including the eligibility criteria household discount and prior coverage discounts.
These discounts can help offset the cost of the plan’s additional benefits, making it an even more attractive option for seniors seeking comprehensive healthcare protection.
To learn more about premium discounts and eligibility criteria, individuals can contact us today for personalized rate information and guidance.
Navigating Plan G Plus with Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Blue Cross and Blue Shield, a mutual legal reserve company operating as a health care service corporation, offer valuable support and resources for individuals seeking comprehensive coverage through the Blue Medicare Supplement Plan G Plus.
From the Medicare Select option to the 24/7 Nurseline, Blue Cross and Blue Shield provide the tools and assistance necessary to ensure members receive the highest level of healthcare protection and support.
By working closely with Blue Cross and Blue Shield, individuals can confidently navigate their Plan G Plus coverage and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with comprehensive healthcare protection.
Medicare Select Option
The Medicare Select option is a cost-effective alternative for Plan G Plus members, providing cost savings by utilizing a Medicare Select hospital for non-emergency care.
By opting for the Medicare Select option, individuals can enjoy lower out-of-pocket expenses without sacrificing the quality of their healthcare coverage.
To be eligible for Medicare Select, individuals must reside within 30 miles of a Medicare Select hospital and agree to use the hospital for non-emergency care. This option offers a practical solution for those seeking to lower their healthcare costs while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Support and Resources
Blue Cross and Blue Shield offer a variety of support and resources for Plan G Plus members, ensuring they have the information and assistance needed to navigate their healthcare coverage confidently.
One such resource is the 24/7 Nurseline, which offers access to nurses for health advice and guidance on emergency care.
Additionally, the Blue Cross and Blue Shield website offers the following benefits to its members:
- Personalized rate information
- Access to supplementary resources
- Easy access to stay informed about coverage
- Ability to make necessary adjustments to their plan
Summary
In conclusion, Plan G Plus is an innovative Medicare Supplement offering that provides seniors with comprehensive healthcare coverage and unique benefits.
With dental, vision, hearing, and fitness access, Plan G Plus addresses the specific health concerns of seniors while providing substantial savings compared to traditional Medicare Supplement plans.
By comparing Plan G Plus with other coverage options and utilizing the support and resources provided by Blue Cross and Blue Shield, individuals can make an informed decision about their healthcare coverage and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with comprehensive protection.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Plan G and Plan G extra?
Medigap Plan. G does not have copays for medical office and emergency department visits like Plan N, and does not require payment of Part B excess charges.
However, it does not offer the hearing, vision, and Over-the-Counter benefits that come with Plan G Extra or G Inspire.
Is Medicare Plan G any good?
Medicare Plan G offers comprehensive coverage and is the most complete Medicare plan available, covering almost everything except for the Part B deductible. It is a great choice for many eligible beneficiaries who want peace of mind without paying out-of-pocket expenses.
What does Plan G not cover?
Plan G does not cover the Part B deductible, dental, vision, hearing, skilled nursing facility care, private-duty nursing, or prescription medications, and a separate policy must be purchased to cover these needs.
These needs include the Part B deductible, dental, vision, hearing, skilled nursing facility care, private-duty nursing, and prescription medications. A separate policy must be purchased to cover these needs.
What is the enrollment period for Plan G Plus?
The enrollment period for Plan G Plus is a 6-month window starting at age 65 or when enrolling in Medicare Part B. If you are in a Medicare Advantage plan and wish to apply for Plan G, you may do so during the Fall Annual Enrollment Period starting on October 15th of each year.
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 have questions about the Medicare Plan G Plus, 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.