How to Compare AARP Medicare Plans

United Healthcare provides AARP Medicare Advantage and Supplemental plans. Medicare Advantage plans, also called Medicare Part C, provide comprehensive benefits including hospitalization, doctor visits, outpatient services and more, depending on the plan selected. AARP offers several Medicare Supplemental plans that provide coverage where Medicare Parts A and B stop. You can compare plans online at the AARP Medicare plans website or contact United Healthcare at 800-850-6807 for assistance by phone.

Instructions

• 1

  Compare the different types of AARP Medicare Advantage plans. These include HMO, PPO, POS or PFFS. Evaluate the major differences between the types of plans to help you decide. For instance, an HMO requires you visit a particular network of providers, but a PPO allows you to see any doctor you want, at a higher cost. Note which plan differences your prefer over others.

• 2

  Consider your prescription drug usage and evaluate if you need coverage for prescription drugs. Compare which plans integrate prescription drug coverage into them and review plan coverage amounts. Use the prescription drug look up tool on the AARP Medicare Plans website to estimate prescriptions costs.

• 3

  Analyze potential out-of-pockets costs for each AARP Medicare plan. Compare the premiums--the cost of the policy--and deductibles, copays and coinsurance for each plan. You can also factor in costs for prescription drug coverage. Usually the higher the deductible, the lower the premium. Think about how often you see the doctor and which plans would meet your budget.

• 4

  Assure that your current providers participate in the AARP Medicare Advantage plans. You can use the provider search tool on the AARP Medicare plans website or call AARP at 800-850-6807 to inquire if your doctors participate. You might also want to call your doctor's office to make sure they participate in the plans you are interested in.

• 5

  Decide whether or not you want and can afford a Medicare Supplemental plan. A Medicare Supplemental plan will cover services such as out-of-country health care and pay for coinsurance and additional costs that Medicare Part A and B do not. You must be covered by Medicare A and B to purchase a Medicare Supplemental plan.