Which type of plan generally has the lowest premiums but requires higher out-of-pocket costs for services?

The type of plan that generally has the lowest premiums but requires higher out-of-pocket costs for services is the High-Deductible Medicare Plan.

These plans typically feature lower monthly premium rates, which can make them attractive for enrollees who want to save on upfront costs. However, in exchange for these lower premiums, these plans also impose higher deductibles, requiring members to pay more out-of-pocket before their insurance starts covering a larger portion of their healthcare expenses. This means that while individuals may save on monthly premiums, they should be prepared for potentially significant costs when they need medical care.

In contrast, Medicare Supplement Plans help cover out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare, such as copayments and deductibles, and generally have higher premium costs. Medicare Advantage Plans, while often more affordable than traditional Medicare with some added benefits, do not typically have the same structure of lower premiums for higher deductibles. Finally, Medicare Part D Plans specifically focus on prescription drug coverage, and while some might have low premiums, they do not fit the criteria of a plan that generally has low premiums alongside high out-of-pocket costs for services.