What Is Medigap Plan C? Coverage, Benefits and Costs Explained

Medigap Plan C has been a key player in providing Medicare beneficiaries with robust supplemental coverage for years.

Before recent eligibility changes, it was one of the most popular options for those looking to minimize out-of-pocket expenses, offering a blend of simplicity and comprehensive protection.

Even though eligibility rules have changed, Plan C still remains a valuable choice for those who qualify.

In this blog, we’ll go through coverage details, key benefits and who can still enroll, helping you determine if it’s the right supplement plan for your needs.

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Overview of Medigap Plan C Medigap Plan C takes care of significant expenses like Medicare Part A and Part B deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.

However, there’s a catch — not everyone can enroll in Plan C anymore.

If you became eligible for Medicare after January 1, 2020, Plan C is no longer an option for you due to changes in federal regulations under the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA).

But if you were eligible before that date, you might still be able to access its broad coverage.

What Does Medigap Plan C Cover? This plan is designed to fill many of the gaps left by Original Medicare, helping beneficiaries manage out-of-pocket costs with ease.

Here’s a closer look at what Plan C covers:

Medicare Part A and Part B Deductibles Plan C takes the financial burden off your shoulders by covering both Medicare Part A and Part B deductibles.

Part A deductible: This can be a significant expense, especially for hospital stays. Plan C steps in to pay this amount, so you're not caught off guard by hefty bills when you need care. Part B deductible: Though Medicare Part B covers outpatient services, you’re typically responsible for meeting an annual deductible first. With Plan C, this expense is covered, saving you money from the start. Coinsurance + Copayments for Hospital & Outpatient Services Coinsurance and copayments can add up quickly, especially if you require frequent medical care.

Plan C helps you by covering:

Hospital costs: Plan C covers the 20% coinsurance you’d otherwise owe for extended hospital stays under Medicare Part A. It also provides coverage for up to 365 additional days in the hospital beyond what Medicare allows. Outpatient care: Whether it’s a routine checkup or specialized care, Plan C covers your Part B coinsurance and copayments, ensuring you’re not stuck with out-of-pocket costs each time you need medical attention. Foreign Travel Emergency Coverage and Additional Benefits For globetrotters, Plan C offers the reassurance of foreign travel emergency coverage.

This plan can help you cover:

Emergency medical costs abroad : If you experience a medical emergency while traveling outside the U.S., Plan C covers 80% of eligible medical costs after a small deductible, giving you peace of mind on your adventures. Additional benefits: Beyond deductibles and copayments, Plan C helps with skilled nursing facility coinsurance and the first three pints of blood, expenses often overlooked but essential in critical situations.

The plan's coverage extends to emergency transportation, which is often a major expense during international travel

Key Benefits of Medicare Supplement Plan C Medicare Supplement Plan C offers a range of benefits that simplify healthcare management and provide significant financial protection.

Some of these benefits are:

1. Coverage With Minimal Out-of-Pocket Costs One of the standout features of Plan C is its all-in-one coverage.

Medicare Part A and Part B deductibles, as well as coinsurance and copayments are all taken care of by Medigap Plan C.

Imagine you’re admitted to hospital for surgery and need follow-up outpatient care.

Under Original Medicare alone, you’d be responsible for:

Part A deductible : $1,676 (2025 amount) for your hospital stay. Part B deductible : $257 (2025 amount) before Medicare starts paying for your outpatient care. Coinsurance : 20% of the cost for doctor visits, outpatient therapy, and other follow-up services. With Plan C, these expenses are covered. You wouldn’t have to pay the $1,676 or $257 deductibles, and your coinsurance is taken care of.

2. Financial Protection Against Unexpected Medical Expenses Another vital benefit of Plan C is the financial protection it offers against unexpected medical expenses.

Imagine traveling abroad and facing a sudden medical emergency that requires hospitalization.

Without Plan C, you could be left covering the entire cost, which might run into thousands of dollars depending on the country and level of care needed.

With Medigap Plan C, 80% of your eligible medical expenses are covered after a small deductible. For instance, if your hospital bill abroad totals $5,000, Plan C steps in to pay $4,000 of that cost, leaving you with just the deductible and 20% to cover.

3. Nationwide Coverage Accepted by Medicare Providers Plan C also shines in its flexibility and accessibility. Unlike health plans that restrict your choices to a limited network, Plan C is accepted by any provider that accepts Medicare.

This means you have the freedom to choose your doctors and facilities without worrying about network limitations.

Whether you’re at home or traveling within the U.S., you can rely on the plan’s broad coverage to provide seamless support wherever you go.

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Who Is Eligible for Medicare Supplement Plan C? We’ve already mentioned that Medicare Supplement Plan C isn’t available anymore, but for some beneficiaries it is still available.

Here’s the eligibility criteria in more detail:

1. Plan C Availability for Beneficiaries Eligible Before 2020 If you became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020, you may still have access to Plan C, even if you didn’t initially enroll.

The MACRA made Plan C unavailable to beneficiaries newly eligible after this date.

However, if you were eligible before 2020, you have the right to purchase Plan C from any insurer offering it in your area, provided you meet underwriting requirements or qualify during specific enrollment periods.

2. Enrollment Options for Existing Plan C Policyholders If you are already enrolled in Medicare Supplement Plan C, you can continue to enjoy its comprehensive benefits without interruption.

Existing policyholders are not affected by the MACRA changes and can renew their plans as long as they continue paying premiums.

It’s also worth reviewing your plan periodically to ensure it continues to meet your needs, as your health and financial situation can change over time.

3. Switching Between Medigap Plans for Eligible Beneficiaries For beneficiaries who qualify for Plan C but are considering other options, switching between Medigap plans is possible under certain circumstances.

During the Medigap Open Enrollment Period or if you have issue rights, you can switch to another plan without medical underwriting.

However, outside these periods, insurers may review your health status before approving a new application.

If Plan C no longer aligns with your needs, exploring alternatives like Plan G or Plan N could be a wise move.

If you’re considering moving from Plan C to another plan, options like Plan G can provide similar comprehensive coverage with slightly lower premiums

Learn More About Medigap Plan C With Healthpilot Medicare Supplement Plan C is a top choice for beneficiaries looking for extensive coverage with fewer out-of-pocket surprises.

Whether you're already eligible or exploring your options , the right Medigap plan can make managing healthcare costs simple and stress-free.

At Healthpilot , we’re here to make Medicare easy. Our advanced platform and expert guidance empower you to find the best plan for your unique needs — without the hassle or hidden agendas.

Here’s what you’ll get with Healthpilot:

Tailored plan recommendations based on your healthcare, medications, and budget. Transparent plan comparisons that let you easily review costs and benefits side by side. Annual plan reviews because your coverage selection should adapt to any changes in your healthcare needs. Free to use — we only get paid when you enroll through us, so there’s no cost to you with no obligation to enroll.

Find the best plan for your needs!

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