Understanding Coverage Options for AARP Medicare Advantage Plans
Explore the various coverage options offered by AARP Medicare Advantage plans, including hospital, medical, and prescription benefits. Learn about different plan types like HMO, PPO, PFFS, and MSA, and understand how these private plans supplement original Medicare. Find out what services are included and what to consider during open enrollment to choose the best plan for your healthcare needs.
AARP Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurers to provide additional coverage beyond original Medicare. Original Medicare, overseen by the federal government, includes hospital insurance (Part A) and medical coverage (Part B).
Supplementing this, Part C—also called Medicare Advantage—allows private companies to deliver these benefits while remaining regulated by Medicare. These plans often include a variety of coordinated care options such as Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO), Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO), Point of Service (POS), and Special Needs Plans (SNP).
Diverse Medicare Advantage Options
Besides, Private Fee-For-Service (PFFS) and Medical Savings Account (MSA) plans offer additional flexibility in coverage and payments.
What AARP Medicare Advantage Plans Cover
These plans typically include much of what original Medicare provides, even if offered by private insurers. They're suitable for individuals lacking comprehensive Part A and B coverage.
HMO or PPO plans cover hospital stays, lab tests, skilled nursing, hospice, surgeries, and home health care—all under original Part A benefits.
They also cover doctor visits, preventive services, essential medical equipment, outpatient services, and home health—aligned with Part B benefits.
While Medicare Parts A and B do not generally cover dental, vision, hearing aids, or wellness programs, many HMO and PPO plans include these services under AARP Medicare Advantage.
Most plans also offer prescription drug coverage.
Since premiums, deductibles, and copays can change annually, you should compare available AARP Medicare Advantage options during the open enrollment period if you wish to switch plans or providers.
