Full Definition

Medicare Part A deductible: ~$1,632 per benefit period in 2024 (not per year). This applies to inpatient hospital stays and, indirectly, to SNF stays (which require a prior inpatient hospitalization). Multiple benefit periods in one year each trigger a new deductible. This is one of Medicare’s highest-cost gaps and a primary reason many beneficiaries purchase Medigap coverage.

Medicare Part B deductible: ~$240 per year in 2024. After meeting the deductible, Part B covers 80% of most services; the beneficiary pays 20% coinsurance. There is no annual out-of-pocket maximum for Original Medicare Part B costs.

Medigap Plans G, C, and F cover the Part B deductible (Plan F no longer available to new Medicare enrollees after 2020). Most Medigap plans cover the Part A deductible. Medicare Advantage plans have their own deductible structures, which vary by plan.