AARP's Endorsement of UnitedHealthcare for Medicare
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) maintains a prominent and exclusive partnership with UnitedHealthcare for its entire suite of Medicare-related insurance products. While AARP is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocacy and information for those 50 and over, it does not underwrite or sell insurance policies directly. Instead, it lends its name and endorsement to specific, carefully evaluated plans from select third-party insurers in exchange for a royalty fee. For the vast majority of its health insurance offerings for seniors, UnitedHealthcare is the exclusive insurer.
This partnership, which has been in place for decades, means that all health insurance plans branded with the AARP name, whether they are Medicare Supplement (Medigap), Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Part D prescription drug plans, are actually underwritten and administered by UnitedHealthcare. This arrangement allows AARP to offer access to insurance options for its members while UnitedHealthcare leverages the trusted AARP brand to reach its target market.
AARP Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans (Medigap)
For those enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), a Medigap policy can be a crucial way to manage out-of-pocket costs such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. AARP endorses several standardized Medicare Supplement plans insured by UnitedHealthcare, which fill these "gaps" in coverage.
To enroll in an AARP-branded Medicare Supplement plan, you must be a member of AARP, though some exceptions may apply based on your location and circumstances. The specific Medigap plans offered by UnitedHealthcare and endorsed by AARP vary by state, but often include the popular Plan G and Plan N options. As mandated by law, all Medigap plans of the same letter provide the same basic benefits, regardless of the insurance company selling them. However, costs can vary significantly, which is why it's important to compare premiums.
AARP Medicare Supplement Plans: A Comparison
Feature | Plan G | Plan N |
---|---|---|
Part A Deductible | Covers 100% | Covers 100% |
Part B Coinsurance | Covers 100% | Covers 100% (after a small copayment) |
Part B Excess Charges | Covers 100% | Does not cover |
Foreign Travel Emergency | 80% coverage | 80% coverage |
Primary Difference | No copayments for office visits. | Fixed copayments for doctor visits and ER use. |
AARP Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans
For those who prefer an all-in-one approach to their health coverage, AARP also endorses Medicare Advantage plans insured by UnitedHealthcare. These plans, also known as Part C, offer all the benefits of Original Medicare, along with a number of extra benefits that vary by plan. These often include prescription drug coverage (Part D), vision, dental, and hearing coverage.
Unlike Medigap plans, you do not need to be an AARP member to enroll in an AARP Medicare Advantage plan, though many are offered to members. These plans come with different copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles than Original Medicare, and typically operate within a managed care network, such as an HMO or PPO.
AARP Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plans
For individuals with Original Medicare who need prescription drug coverage, AARP endorses several Medicare Part D plans administered by UnitedHealthcare. These plans are also offered to all Medicare-eligible individuals and do not require AARP membership for enrollment.
Part D plans can be purchased as a standalone policy to supplement Original Medicare and a Medigap plan. Enrollment depends on the plan's contract renewal with Medicare, and benefits and costs vary.
AARP's Endorsement of Other Insurance Products
While UnitedHealthcare is the exclusive endorser for AARP's health insurance products, AARP works with other prominent insurers for different types of coverage.
- Life Insurance: The AARP Life Insurance Program is underwritten by New York Life Insurance Company, offering a variety of term, permanent, and guaranteed acceptance policies for members.
- Auto and Home Insurance: For auto and home coverage, AARP has an exclusive partnership with The Hartford. This relationship provides members with access to special rates and benefits on their auto and homeowners insurance policies.
Considerations When Choosing an AARP-Endorsed Plan
While the AARP endorsement can serve as a mark of trust, it is critical for consumers to do their own research and compare plans. The best plan for one person may not be the best for another, depending on their individual healthcare needs, financial situation, and location.
Key steps to take when evaluating these plans include:
- Compare Costs: Examine premiums, copayments, deductibles, and any potential out-of-pocket maximums.
- Review Coverage Details: Check what the plan covers beyond Original Medicare, including any limitations or exclusions.
- Check Provider Networks: For Medicare Advantage plans, ensure your doctors and preferred hospitals are in-network.
- Evaluate Extra Benefits: Consider the value of any included benefits like vision, dental, or fitness programs.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to which health insurance does AARP endorse is clear: AARP partners with UnitedHealthcare for all its Medicare-related offerings, including Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, and Prescription Drug plans. The endorsement is a result of a long-standing, exclusive business relationship where UnitedHealthcare pays a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its brand. However, AARP is not an insurance company itself and also endorses other insurers, like New York Life and The Hartford, for other products. A consumer-centric approach involves using the endorsement as a starting point for further research to ensure the plan truly meets their individual needs.
To learn more about the UnitedHealthcare plans endorsed by AARP, you can visit their official website AARP Medicare Plans from UnitedHealthcare.