A Closer Look at Medicare with AARP Supplement Plans

As you approach retirement age as a senior, health care becomes a top priority. Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage for people over 65 (seniors) or those with certain disabilities. However, Medicare doesn’t cover everything, leaving gaps that can result in costly out-of-pocket expenses. That’s where a closer look at Medicare with AARP Supplement plans can help that average senior with coverage.

AARP Medicare supplement plans, also known as Medigap plans, are designed to fill in the gaps left by Medicare. These plans provide additional coverage for things like deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments, which can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best AARP Medicare supplement plans, including their benefits, coverage options, costs, and how to enroll with Medicare 365.

Benefits of AARP Medicare Supplement Plans

AARP Medicare supplement plans offer a range of benefits for seniors that can help you save money and get the care you need. Some of the key benefits include:

Coverage for Medicare deductibles and coinsurance: AARP Medicare supplement plans cover some or all of the deductibles and coinsurance that Medicare doesn’t cover.

Guaranteed renewable: Once you enroll in an AARP Medicare supplement plan, you can keep your coverage as long as you pay your premiums on time.

Freedom to choose your own doctors: Unlike Medicare Advantage plans, which often have networks of providers, AARP Medicare supplement plans allow you to choose any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare.

Coverage when traveling abroad: AARP Medicare supplement plans may provide coverage for emergency medical care when traveling outside the United States.

Coverage Options for AARP Medicare Supplement Plans

AARP Medicare supplement plans offer a range of coverage options, including plans A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N. Each plan offers a different set of benefits, so it’s important to choose the plan that best meets your needs and budget.

Plan A: Basic coverage for Medicare Part A and B coinsurance and copayments.

Plan B: The same coverage as Plan A, plus coverage for the Medicare Part A deductible.

Plan C: Offers more comprehensive coverage, including coverage for Medicare Part B excess charges and foreign travel emergency care.

Plan D: Coverage for Medicare Part A and B coinsurance and copayments, plus coverage for skilled nursing facility care coinsurance.

Plan F: Most comprehensive coverage, including coverage for Medicare Part B excess charges, foreign travel emergency care, and the Medicare Part B deductible.

Plan G: Similar coverage to Plan F, but doesn’t cover the Medicare Part B deductible.

Plan K: Limited coverage for Medicare Part A and B coinsurance and copayments, plus coverage for 50% of the Medicare Part A deductible and 50% of the Medicare Part B deductible.

Plan L: Offers similar coverage to Plan K, but covers 75% of the Medicare Part A deductible and 75% of the Medicare Part B deductible.

Plan M: Also similar coverage to Plan N, but covers 50% of the Medicare Part A deductible and includes coverage for emergency medical care when traveling outside the United States.

Costs of AARP Medicare Supplement Plans

The cost of an AARP Medicare supplement plan varies depending on the plan you choose, your age, where you live, and other factors. It’s important to note that while the monthly premium may be higher for more comprehensive plans, you may end up paying less out-of-pocket in the long run.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering the costs of an AARP Medicare supplement plan:

Premiums: You’ll need to pay a monthly premium to enroll in an AARP Medicare supplement plan.

Deductibles: Some plans have deductibles, which are the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket before your coverage kicks in.

Coinsurance and copayments: Depending on the plan you choose, you may still need to pay coinsurance and copayments for certain medical services.

Guaranteed issue: If you enroll in an AARP Medicare supplement plan during your open enrollment period, you may be able to get guaranteed issue, which means you can’t be turned down for coverage due to pre-existing conditions.

How to Enroll in AARP Medicare Supplement Plans for Seniors

Enrolling in an AARP Medicare supplement plan for seniors is easy. Here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility: To enroll in an AARP Medicare supplement plan, you must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B.

Open enrollment: The best time to enroll in an AARP Medicare supplement plan is during your open enrollment period, which lasts for six months starting on the first day of the month in which you turn 65 or enroll in Medicare Part B.

Guaranteed issue: If you enroll during your open enrollment period, you may be able to get guaranteed issue, which means you can’t be turned down for coverage due to pre-existing conditions.

Application process: To enroll, simply contact AARP or a licensed insurance agent who sells AARP Medicare supplement plans. They can help you compare plans, apply for coverage, and answer any questions you may have.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare supplement plans?

A: Medicare Advantage plans are the greatest alternative to original Medicare and are offered by private insurance companies like Humana and United Healthcare. These plans often have networks of providers and may offer additional benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage. Medicare supplement plans, on the other hand, work with original Medicare to provide additional coverage for things like deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.

Q: Do I need an AARP membership to enroll in an AARP Medicare supplement plan like Plan G or Plan N?

A: No, you do not need to be an AARP member to enroll in an AARP Medicare supplement plan.

Q: Can I switch from one AARP Medicare supplement plan to another?

A: Yes, you can switch from one AARP Medicare supplement plan to another at any time, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and are able to pass underwriting.