Best Medicare Supplement Plans in Washington State
If you’re shopping for a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan in Washington State, you’re in the right place.
Medigap plans remain the most reliable and comprehensive way to protect yourself from the out-of-pocket costs left behind by Original Medicare – and in 2025, more people than ever are choosing this path over Medicare Advantage.
There are 10 standardized Medigap plans available in Washington State (labeled A through N), each offering a different level of coverage. Regardless of your chosen insurance company, each plan must provide the same standardized benefits.
That means a Plan G from one company offers the same core coverage as Plan G from another – what varies is the monthly premium, extra benefits (like dental or vision), and the insurer’s service reputation.
In this article, we’ll look at:
- Plan G and Plan N Overview
- Top Medigap Companies in Washington State
- Premium Comparisons
- Worst Medigap Companies in Washington State
- How to Choose the Right Medigap Provider
- Medigap Enrollment Info
We’ll also cover some common questions to help you feel confident about your Medigap options.
Let’s start with overviews of Plan G and Plan N.
Plan G: The Top Choice in Washington State
As of 2025, Plan G continues to dominate the Medicare Supplement market in Washington State – and across the country – for one key reason:
It delivers the most comprehensive coverage available to new Medicare enrollees.
Unlike Medicare Advantage plans, which often come with provider networks, prior authorizations, and changing benefits, Plan G works seamlessly with Original Medicare. There are no networks, no referrals, and once you’ve paid the small annual Part B deductible, there are no out-of-pocket costs for Medicare-approved services.
Plan G covers doctor visits, hospital stays, outpatient procedures, lab work, and even emergency care during foreign travel.
Plan G has also become more affordable than Plan F, which is no longer available to new Medicare beneficiaries. It offers stable, predictable coverage – especially appealing to retirees who want to avoid surprises or restrictions.
In 2025, approximately 90% of Medigap enrollees in Washington are choosing Plan G – and it’s not hard to understand why.
It’s simple, predictable, and ideal for people who want comprehensive coverage without worrying about surprise medical bills. That’s why Plan G has overtaken Plan F and continues to widen the gap over other plan types.
What About Medigap Plan N?
The remaining 10% of enrollees mostly choose Plan N, which offers similar benefits to Plan G at a lower monthly cost. However, it comes with small copays for office visits and emergency room use and does not cover excess charges.
Later on, we’ll look closer at Plan N, a great choice for anyone wanting to balance cost savings with solid coverage.
Next, let’s review the top Medicare Supplement companies in Washington State for 2025 and help you find the best match based on your budget, lifestyle, and coverage preferences.
Overview
ACE, underwritten by Chubb, is a standout option in Washington’s Medigap market – especially for those looking for the lowest-priced Plan G and High-Deductible G options.
While the company keeps things simple with no bundled extras, they consistently rank among the most competitive prices.
Plan G Premium: $205.83/month
High-Deductible Plan G (HDG): $66.58/month
ACE has gained noticeable traction in Washington State over the past few years. While it doesn’t carry the brand recognition of legacy Medicare insurers, its rapid growth and competitive pricing suggest it’s becoming a go-to for price-conscious shoppers.
Key Takeaways:
- No dental, vision, or hearing (DVH) coverage is included or available as a rider
- Offers core Plan G and High-Deductible G benefits, with no frills or add-on programs
- Works with any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare
Discounts:
- Household discounts are available, often between 7–12%, depending on ZIP code and household eligibility
- No additional multi-policy or lifestyle program incentives
ACE Pros and Cons
- Lowest Plan G premium among top carriers in the state
- The most affordable High-Deductible Plan G option in Washington
- Backed by Chubb, one of the most financially secure insurance groups globally (A++ AM Best rating)
- Clean, streamlined offering – good fit for those who don’t want unnecessary features
- No DVH options, which may be important to some buyers
- Limited extra benefits, such as wellness programs, fitness memberships, or digital member tools
- Brand recognition may be limited compared to more established names in Medicare
Our Opinion
ACE is an excellent choice for healthy individuals or budget-minded retirees who want dependable coverage without the extras.
Market share data shows ACE as one of the fastest-growing new entrants in the state’s Medigap space.
If you don’t need dental or vision bundled in and prefer to keep your monthly premium as low as possible, ACE is worth strong consideration – especially if you’re looking at High-Deductible G.
Overview
Cigna is a nationally recognized name in health insurance with a strong footprint in the Medicare Supplement space.
In Washington State, Plan G pricing comes in higher than low-cost carriers like ACE, but it offers a more well-rounded package, including optional dental, vision, and hearing (DVH) benefits.
Plan G Premium: $224.81/month
Cigna consistently ranks among the top 5 Medigap insurers in Washington by enrollment. Their reputation, broad plan availability, and nationwide infrastructure have helped them maintain a strong presence in the state’s urban and rural areas.
While they may not lead on price, many beneficiaries choose Cigna for peace of mind and bundled benefit access.
Key Takeaways:
- Offers the full standard Plan G benefit set
- DVH package available as an optional add-on – includes preventive and comprehensive dental care, routine vision exams, and hearing exams/support
- Can be paired with other Cigna policies for multi-line convenience
Discounts:
- Household discounts are available in most areas (typically around 7%)
- Additional perks may include wellness discounts or partner program access depending on plan type and region
Cigna Pros and Cons
- Optional DVH coverage gives enrollees access to more complete care
- Reputable national brand with strong customer service ratings and claim handling
- Good balance of coverage and add-ons, especially for those who value bundled benefits
- Monthly premium is higher than some competitors like ACE or Allstate
- Not always the most cost-effective if you don’t plan to use the ancillary benefits
Our Opinion
Cigna offers a solid middle-ground for Medicare enrollees in Washington who want more than just basic medical coverage – but don’t want to overspend.
Cigna is a strong contender if you value one-stop coverage with the option to add dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
While it’s not the cheapest Plan G on the market, the added features may justify the higher premium for many people.
Overview
Regence BlueShield is a well-established regional carrier with deep roots in Washington State.
While their Plan G pricing is the highest among the top three carriers, many enrollees choose Regence for its brand familiarity, regional provider relationships, and wellness-focused benefits.
Plan G Premium: $260.00/month
As one of the most widely recognized and utilized insurers in the Pacific Northwest, Regence holds a significant share of Washington’s Medigap market. Their strong name recognition, particularly among retirees already using Regence for pre-Medicare coverage, contributes to steady Plan G enrollment year after year.
Key Takeaways:
- Standard Plan G benefits – covers all Medicare-approved costs after the Part B deductible
- Includes access to the Silver&Fit® program, which provides a free standard gym membership at participating locations, access to on-demand workout videos and fitness classes, and support for active, healthy lifestyles without an added cost
- It does not offer dental, vision, or hearing (DVH) coverage
Discounts:
- A $20/month discount is available when both spouses apply
- No discount is available for single applicants, which may impact affordability for solo enrollees
Regence Pros and Cons
- Highly trusted regional brand with decades of experience in Washington
- Excellent wellness perks included through Silver&Fit®
- Strong member support and access to many local healthcare providers
- Highest Plan G premium among the top-rated carriers in the state
- No DVH coverage available, which may be a downside for those wanting bundled care
- Discount structure favors couples, which may not help single individuals
Our Opinion
Regence BlueShield is best suited for Medicare enrollees who already know and trust the Regence name or who place a high value on built-in wellness benefits like fitness access.
While it’s not the most budget-friendly option, Regence may appeal to those who want a familiar brand and don’t require dental or vision coverage bundled into their plan.
Before we compare these top providers, it’s important to remember that all Medigap Plan G policies are standardized.
That means the core medical benefits – such as hospital coverage, Part B coinsurance, skilled nursing facility care, and foreign travel emergency – are identical, no matter which insurance company you choose.
Comparing ACE, Cigna, and Regence BlueShield for Medigap Plan G in Washington State
So, what sets these companies apart? It comes down to three key factors:
#1. Brand recognition and trust
#2. Monthly premiums and available discounts
#3. Extra perks and optional benefits like dental, vision, hearing, or wellness programs
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of how ACE, Cigna, and Regence stack up for Plan G in Washington:
| Provider | Plan G Premium | Discounts | DVH Coverage | Fitness Perks | Pros | Cons |
| ACE | $205.83 | Yes | No | None | Lowest cost, simple coverage | No extras or DVH coverage |
| Cigna | $224.81 | Yes | Yes | None | Best ancillary benefits available | Higher premium than ACE |
| Regence | $260.00 | Spouse discount only | No | Silver&Fit® | Trusted brand, wellness perks | Highest premium of the three |
After comparing top Medigap carriers in Washington State, it’s clear that each company offers something different.
While Plan G’s core benefits are standardized, the overall value depends on how well a company’s pricing, discounts, and extras align with your personal needs.
Which Company Offers the Best All-Around Package for Plan G?
Let’s look at how the three leading options stack up.
ACE: Great for Buyers on a Budget
ACE is the clear winner if your top priority is keeping your monthly premium as low as possible without sacrificing core coverage.
Their Plan G premium is the most affordable among major carriers in Washington, and their High-Deductible Plan G option offers an even lower entry point for those comfortable with more up-front risk.
ACE is best for healthy individuals, retirees on a fixed income, or shoppers who want no-frills, reliable coverage at the lowest cost.
Cigna: Best for Dental, Vision, and Hearing Benefits
Cigna is the only top-tier Plan G carrier in Washington that offers a built-in DVH3500 (Dental, Vision, Hearing) package.
The DVH 3500 plan provides comprehensive coverage, including a $100 annual deductible for dental services, $2,500 in dental benefits per calendar year, and $0 dental check-ups. Vision exams are covered at 90% or up to $100, with a $300 allowance for eyewear. Hearing evaluations are covered up to $50, and hearing aids up to $700.
The average monthly premium for the DVH 3500 plan is $62.
If you’re looking for more complete protection under one roof – and want to avoid juggling multiple insurance companies – Cigna offers convenience and flexibility, backed by a national brand with strong customer service.
Cigna is best for people who want bundled coverage, those who regularly use dental or vision care, or enrollees who value extras without spending too much on premiums.
Regence BlueShield: Best for Fitness and Brand Loyalty
With one of the most recognizable names in Washington, Regence appeals to people who prioritize brand familiarity, local service, and built-in wellness benefits.
Their Plan G premium is the highest of the three, but it comes with perks like Silver&Fit®, a no-cost fitness program that gives access to gyms and on-demand workouts.
This provider is best for long-time Regence members, active retirees who want fitness benefits, or those who feel more comfortable with a trusted regional brand.
Bottom Line
There is no single “best” Plan G for everyone – it depends on what matters most to you.
Here’s a quick recap:
- ACE is best for affordability
- Cigna is best for bundled dental, vision, and hearing
- Regence is best for fitness perks and name recognition
Still not sure which one to choose? In the next section, we’ll introduce another provider, Humana, and see how it compares to the previous three.
How Do ACE, Cigna, and Regence BlueShield Compare to Humana in Washington?
While ACE, Cigna, and Regence BlueShield represent some of the most competitive and balanced Plan G offerings in Washington State, Humana also has a presence – though it comes at a significantly higher cost.
Humana
Overview
Humana is one of the most well-known health insurance brands in the U.S., with a long track record in both Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement markets. In Washington, however, their Plan G pricing is the highest among the major carriers – over $50 more per month than ACE and more than $15 higher than Regence.
Plan G Premium: $275.28/month
High-Deductible Plan G (HDG): $66.22/month
The High-Deductible Plan G is more competitively priced at $66.22/month, closely matching ACE’s HDG rate. But if you’re looking at standard Plan G, Humana’s cost tends to outweigh its benefits unless you have a specific reason to favor the brand.
Humana Pros and Cons
- Financially stable and well-established company with a long history in the healthcare industry.
- Humana offers a broad selection of Medigap plans in Washginton State, including Plans A, B, C, F, G, K, L, and N.
- Vision and hearing discounts are available
- 24/7 nurse hotline
Cons:
- In certain areas, Humana’s Plan G premiums were approximately 46% higher than the least expensive alternative
- Humana has received a higher-than-average number of consumer complaints regarding its Medigap plans.
- Medigap policies cover only one person; spouses must purchase separate policies.
Here’s how Humana stacks up against the competition.
| Company | Plan G Premium | HDG Premium | Perks | DVH Coverage | Best For |
| ACE | $205.83 | $66.58 | No major perks | No | Budget-focused shoppers |
| Cigna | $224.81 | Not offered | DVH add-on available | Yes | Those who want bundled dental/vision |
| Regence | $260.00 | Not offered | Silver&Fit® included | No | Brand loyalists and active retirees |
| Humana | $275.28 | $66.22 | National brand perks | Not bundled | Humana-loyal members only |
Our Thoughts on Humana
A trusted brand backs Humana’s Medigap plans in Washington and may appeal to people who have had a positive experience with the company in the past. However, the premium is hard to justify compared to more affordable options offering equal or better benefits.
The Plan G premium is the highest among all major competitors despite offering no standout features that are not already available through other carriers.
The High-Deductible Plan G is reasonably priced, but ACE matches it – and ACE’s core Plan G is significantly more affordable.
Unless you’re a loyal Humana member or have a unique provider preference tied to Humana, most shoppers will find better value through ACE, Cigna, or Regence.
Now, let’s chat about a few Medigap providers we think you might want to avoid.
Medigap Providers to Avoid in Washington State
Not all Medigap plans are priced fairly – and in some cases, the differences are dramatic.
Because the benefits of Medigap Plan G are standardized, paying more doesn’t get you more coverage. It simply means you’re overpaying for the same protection that’s available for significantly less elsewhere.
Below are two Medicare Supplement providers currently offering some of the most overpriced Plan G premiums in Washington State.
#1. GPM Health and Life Insurance Company
Plan G Premium: $466.44/month
This premium is nearly double the cost of similar Plan G plans from companies like ACE and more than $200 higher than Cigna or Regence. GPM does not offer any added value, DVH benefits, or meaningful member perks to justify this pricing.
Unless there is an extremely specific underwriting advantage that applies to your situation, this plan offers poor value for the price.
#2. United American Insurance Company
Plan G Premium: $264.00/month
United American’s pricing is just above Regence’s, but it lacks added benefits such as Silver&Fit® or regional brand support. It’s a barebones plan at a premium price, offering no extras, no DVH integration, and little brand familiarity for most Washington Medicare enrollees.
With better-priced options that include extra perks and stronger support, there’s little reason to pay this rate.
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In a nutshell:
Both GPM and United American offer standardized Plan G benefits at inflated prices – without any added value in return. For most people, there are far better options in Washington State.
How to Choose the Right Medigap Company in Washington State
Here’s a simple guide to help you weigh your options and pick the right provider in Washington State.
#1. Start With Your Budget: What Can You Comfortably Afford?
Since the benefits are identical, you should never pay more for the same plan unless you’re getting real added value in return.
If your priority is keeping monthly premiums low, ACE offers the most cost-effective Plan G and High-Deductible Plan G options in the state.
If you’re okay paying slightly more for convenience or bundled features, Cigna and Regence bring added perks, but at a higher price point.
Before you get attached to a brand name, always ask yourself:
Is this premium sustainable for the next 5–10 years? What am I actually getting in return for the price difference?
#2. Do You Want Dental, Vision, or Hearing Coverage Built-In?
Many people new to Medicare don’t realize that Original Medicare and Medigap plans don’t cover dental, vision, or hearing. If you want those benefits, you’ll either need to buy a standalone plan – or choose a Medigap company that allows you to bundle DVH coverage.
Cigna offers one of the most complete DVH add-ons in the state, giving you the ability to handle medical and dental needs under one roof.
ACE and Regence do not offer any DVH options, which means you’d need a separate policy for those services.
Think about what you’ll actually use. If you visit the dentist regularly or rely on prescription glasses or hearing aids, a plan with DVH benefits may offer real, everyday value.
#3. Consider Lifestyle Extras: Fitness Benefits and Wellness Support
More and more seniors are looking for Medicare plans that support healthy, active aging – and some Medigap carriers are answering the call.
Regence BlueShield includes Silver&Fit®, which gives you free access to gym memberships and on-demand fitness classes.
ACE and Cigna do not include wellness programs or fitness perks.
If maintaining an active lifestyle is important to you – or if you want access to gyms, yoga, or strength training without additional out-of-pocket cost – wellness benefits could help justify a slightly higher monthly premium.
#4. Think About Brand Loyalty and Customer Support
If you’ve had a good experience with a company pre-Medicare, it may feel safer to stick with them post-retirement. Regence, for example, is a household name in Washington and offers strong in-state support and provider familiarity.
That said, newer players like ACE, though less familiar, are financially strong and highly rated. Don’t overlook newer carriers just because you haven’t heard of them – what they lack in name recognition, they often make up for in value and efficiency.
#5. Look Into Discounts: Are You Eligible for Household Savings?
Many Medigap carriers offer a household discount if you and your spouse or another adult are enrolled in the home.
ACE and Cigna offer flexible household discounts, often 7–12%, even if the second person doesn’t apply.
Regence, on the other hand, only offers a discount when both spouses apply, which limits savings for individuals.
If you’re applying alone, this small detail could make a big difference in your premium.
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You're Doing Great!
If you’ve made it this far in your research, take a moment to pat yourself on the back. You’re not just shopping for a Medicare plan – you’re making a thoughtful decision about your long-term healthcare security.
And that choice couldn’t come at a better time.
What’s the Cheapest Medigap Plan I Can Select?
Let’s switch gears from Medigap providers and talk more about Medigap plans.
If your main goal is to keep monthly premiums as low as possible, the High-Deductible Plan G (HDG) is the most affordable Medicare Supplement option available in Washington State.
HDG offers the same standardized benefits as traditional Plan G – but only after you meet a much higher annual deductible. For 2025, that deductible is $2,870.
Until you hit that deductible, you’re responsible for all Medicare-approved out-of-pocket costs. After that, the plan pays 100% of covered services for the rest of the year.
In 2025, the two most competitively priced HDG plans are:
- Humana High-Deductible Plan G: $66.22/month
- ACE High-Deductible Plan G: $66.58/month
These plans are priced well below standard Plan G options, offering coverage while keeping monthly costs minimal.
High-Deductible Plan G offers lower monthly premiums, catastrophic medical protection, and nationwide provider access. It’s ideal for healthy individuals who rarely need care, want to avoid Medicare Advantage, and are comfortable with higher out-of-pocket costs for long-term savings.
Just remember:
- You’ll need to pay out-of-pocket for all Medicare-approved services until you reach the $2,870 annual deductible
- It is not ideal for people with frequent doctor visits, chronic conditions, or ongoing treatment needs
- No dental, vision, or hearing (DVH) coverage is included
- You’ll want to have emergency savings available in case of an unexpected hospitalization or costly outpatient procedure early in the year
Plan G vs. Plan N: Out-Of-Pocket Costs
We touched on Plan G and Plan N earlier, but if you’re trying to decide between them, it’s really important to know how the out-of-pocket costs compare.
While both plans offer strong protection from Medicare’s coverage gaps, they handle cost-sharing a bit differently.
Plan G: Maximum Coverage With Minimal Bills
With Plan G, your only out-of-pocket medical expense (aside from your monthly premium) is the annual Medicare Part B deductible of $257 in 2025. Once that’s paid, Plan G covers 100% of all Medicare-approved services.
This means:
- No copays for doctor visits
- No hospital coinsurance
- No excess charges
- No surprises
For people who want predictability and complete peace of mind, Plan G is often the go-to choice.
Plan N: Lower Premium With Small Copays
Plan N offers similar coverage but introduces a few cost-sharing features in exchange for a lower monthly premium:
- You still pay the annual Part B deductible ($257 in 2025)
- You may pay up to $20 for office visits
- You may pay up to $50 for emergency room visits (waived if admitted)
- Plan N does not cover Part B excess charges – an additional fee some doctors may charge if they don’t accept Medicare’s full payment rate
These out-of-pocket costs are generally modest but can add up if you see providers frequently or choose specialists who bill above Medicare-approved rates.
Our Recommendation
Plan G is best for those who want comprehensive, hassle-free coverage with minimal out-of-pocket risk.
Plan N is ideal for people who are comfortable with occasional copays and want to save on monthly premiums, especially if they see doctors who accept Medicare assignment and don’t charge excess fees.
In the following sections, we’ll discuss enrollment details and include information about guaranteed issue rights and the Medigap birthday rule in Washington State.
When Is the Annual Enrollment Period for Medigap in Washington State?
This is a question we hear all the time — and it’s an important one to clarify:
There is no Annual Enrollment Period for Medigap.
Unlike Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans, which operate on a strict Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 to December 7, Medicare Supplement plans do not follow that schedule.
You can apply for or switch Medigap plans at any time of year in Washington State.
However, your application may be subject to medical underwriting unless you’re within a protected enrollment window – like your initial Medigap Open Enrollment Period or the state’s birthday rule.
This means the insurance company can ask about your health history, you could be denied coverage or charged a higher premium based on your health status.
So, while you have the freedom to apply anytime, that flexibility doesn’t mean guaranteed approval.
Medigap Enrollment Windows
- Medigap Open Enrollment Period: This six-month window begins when you’re 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this time, you can enroll in any Medigap plan with no underwriting.
- Birthday Rule Window: In Washington, you can switch to another Medigap plan with equal or lesser benefits during the 60 days following your birthday – with no health questions asked.
- Special Enrollment Rights: If you lose employer coverage or move out of a Medicare Advantage service area, you may also qualify for guaranteed issue rights.
Don’t confuse the Medicare Advantage Annual Enrollment Period with Medigap. While Advantage and Part D plans lock you into an annual cycle, Medigap offers year-round flexibility – but with it comes the possibility of underwriting unless you act during a protected window.
Before changing plans, make sure you’re eligible, check your enrollment window, and talk to a licensed agent to understand any underwriting risks.
Let’s talk a little more about guaranteed issue rights in Washington State.
Is Medicare Supplement Guaranteed Issue in Washington State?
One of the most common misconceptions about Medigap plans is that you can enroll anytime without medical underwriting. While Medicare Supplement plans in Washington do not require annual renewal like Medicare Advantage, that doesn’t mean you can switch freely without restrictions.
So, is Medigap a guaranteed issue in Washington State? Not universally. But there are important exceptions you should know about.
When you first become eligible for Medicare – typically at age 65 – you have a six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period.
During this window:
- You can enroll in any Medigap plan available in your area
- You cannot be denied or charged more based on preexisting conditions
- Underwriting is not required
However, once that period ends, insurance companies are allowed to require medical underwriting if you apply later – unless you qualify for a special enrollment right or state-specific protection.
Washington is also one of a handful of states that offers a birthday rule. This rule provides an annual opportunity to switch Medigap plans without medical underwriting.
Here’s how it works:
- Each year, beginning on your birthday, you have 60 days to switch to a Medigap plan with equal or lesser benefits (i.e., Plan G to Plan G or Plan G to Plan N)
- You can change carriers, even if you’re outside your initial enrollment period
- No health questions or underwriting are allowed during this window
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Important to know:
Under the birthday rule, you can switch to a Medigap plan with equal or lesser benefits but not upgrade to a higher-benefit plan. This rule doesn’t apply to Medicare Advantage or Part D plans.
If you’re outside your six-month Open Enrollment Period and not eligible under the birthday rule or another special right (such as losing employer coverage or moving out of a Medicare Advantage service area), you can still apply for a Medigap plan. But, the insurance company can ask health questions.
You may be denied or charged more based on your health history.
This is why enrolling at the right time and staying enrolled in a plan that works for you long-term is important, especially if your health changes.
Quick Recap:
- Washington is not a guaranteed-issue state year-round
- You can apply for Medigap at any time, but medical underwriting may apply
- The birthday rule offers a once-a-year chance to switch without health questions – but only for equal or lesser coverage
- If you’re new to Medicare, your Open Enrollment Period is your best opportunity to get any Medigap plan you want, with no questions asked
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for guaranteed issue based on your situation, it’s always worth speaking with a licensed Medicare advisor.
Is Medigap Worth It if I’m Healthy and Rarely See a Doctor?
If you’re healthy and rarely visit the doctor, you might wonder if a Medicare Supplement plan is worth the monthly premium.
It’s a fair question – especially when comparing it to seemingly lower-cost options like Medicare Advantage.
But here’s the key: Medigap isn’t just for people who use healthcare frequently. It’s designed to protect you when your needs change – and when they matter.
Even if you only go in for routine checkups today, having a Medigap plan like Plan G or Plan N means you’ll never be caught off guard by unexpected bills later. You know exactly what your coverage includes – and once you meet the small annual Part B deductible, most or all of your Medicare-approved services are fully covered.
There are:
- No copays
- No coinsurance surprises
- No prior authorizations
- No networks – see any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare
Medigap becomes especially valuable when something unexpected or serious happens — like hospitalization, emergency surgery, cancer diagnosis, or skilled nursing care. These are the moments when Original Medicare leaves significant gaps and where Medigap steps in to cover them fully.
Without supplemental coverage, a single hospitalization or extended rehab stay could cost thousands out of pocket – even for someone who rarely sees a doctor.
And unlike Medicare Advantage, Medigap plans don’t require annual re-enrollment or plan reviews – you keep your benefits for life as long as you continue paying your premium.
Speaking of Medicare Advantage, the market experienced one of the most disruptive years in recent memory in 2024. Let’s break that down in the next section.
The 2024 Medicare Advantage Shakeup
The Medicare Advantage landscape saw some big changes recently, with new regulations, insurers scaling back, and shifts in costs affecting millions of seniors across the U.S.
Companies like Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, and others reduced the number of Medicare Advantage plans they offered, resulting in an estimated 1.5 million enrollees losing their coverage.
The consequences for Medicare beneficiaries were profound. In areas where insurers withdrew or downsized their offerings, beneficiaries faced reduced choices and, in some cases, the loss of long-standing plans. Many were forced to navigate new plan structures, potentially with different networks, benefits, and costs.
For those impacted, it was a frustrating and uncertain experience – and a reminder of how unstable Medicare Advantage can be when plans change or disappear overnight.
Why Medigap Still Stands Strong
While Medicare Advantage enrollees scrambled to keep their coverage intact, Medigap members stayed right where they were – with no plan changes, network terminations, or surprise bills.
That’s the value of Medicare Supplement insurance:
- No networks: See any provider who accepts Medicare nationwide
- No annual benefit changes: Your coverage stays consistent year after year
- No prior authorizations or claim denials
- Guaranteed renewability: As long as you pay your premium, your coverage cannot be dropped
In a constantly shifting healthcare environment, Medigap offers rare stability and predictability – and in 2025, that matters more than ever.
Do I Need a Referral to See a Specialist With a Medicare Supplement?
No – referrals are never required when you have a Medigap plan.
One of the biggest advantages of choosing a Medicare Supplement plan over Medicare Advantage is the freedom to see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare anywhere in the United States – without needing a referral.
Medigap plans work alongside Original Medicare, meaning you don’t need to designate a primary care physician and can schedule appointments directly with specialists.
No networks, gatekeeping, or prior authorizations are required for most services.
Whether you see a dermatologist in Spokane, a cardiologist in Seattle, or a cancer specialist at the Mayo Clinic, your Medigap plan goes with you – as long as the provider accepts Medicare.
Nationwide access ensures flexibility for frequent travelers, access to top hospitals, and the freedom to choose care without delays.
How Does Foreign Travel Coverage Work with Medicare Supplement Plans?
If you travel internationally – whether occasionally or as part of a snowbird lifestyle – having protection beyond U.S. borders is an important consideration. While Original Medicare generally does not cover medical services outside the United States, many Medicare Supplement plans do.
Both Plan G and Plan N include limited emergency foreign travel coverage, offering peace of mind if you need care while traveling abroad.
Under Medigap Plans G and N, you receive:
- 80% coverage for emergency medical care received in a foreign country
- Coverage applies after you meet a $257 annual deductible
- There is a lifetime limit of $50,000 in foreign travel emergency benefits
This benefit is designed for emergencies – such as an unexpected illness or injury – not routine care or elective procedures. Coverage typically applies during the first 60 days of a trip outside the U.S.
This coverage is ideal for frequent travelers, cruise-goers, or anyone seeking a safety net for unexpected emergencies while abroad. It’s not a substitute for full international health insurance but provides a safety net that Original Medicare alone does not.
Bottom Line
The Medicare Advantage shakeup in 2024 was a wake-up call for many beneficiaries. Over a million enrollees lost coverage due to insurer cutbacks, market exits, and regulatory changes, highlighting the instability of Advantage plans. In contrast, Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans offer consistency, stability, and transparency.
Medigap plans are gaining popularity in Washington State, where the market is competitive and consumer-friendly. Plan G remains a top choice due to its comprehensive coverage and no-surprise billing. Unlike Advantage plans, which can change networks or benefits yearly, Plan G offers continuity and nationwide access to any Medicare provider. No referrals are needed, no claim denials for prior authorization, and once the annual Part B deductible is met, nearly all Medicare-approved services are fully covered.
With the 2024 Advantage disruptions, Medigap’s value has never been clearer: dependable coverage, affordability, and protection from unexpected costs. In 2025, more Washington residents are choosing Medigap for the security it provides in an uncertain healthcare landscape.
Whether you prefer ACE for affordability, Cigna for its DVH add-ons, Regence for its trusted reputation, or Humana for its high-deductible option, the key takeaway is this: Medigap is built to last. In a world of changing premiums and surprise benefit shifts, Medigap’s reliability makes it a smart investment for 2025.
If you need help comparing Medigap plans and providers – we’re here to help!
FAQs
- How much is a doctor's visit without insurance?
- Do Medigap plans in Washington State cost more as you age?
- Do Medigap premiums come out of Social Security?
- Do I need to re-enroll in my Medigap plan each year?
- Are Medigap Benefits Taxable Income?
