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Discover our in-depth AARP Medicare review for 2024, covering Supplement, Medigap, Part D, and Advantage plans. Compare costs, pros, cons, and find the best fit for your retirement health needs with data-driven analysis and expert tips.
Quick Pick
Top Recommendation: AARP Medicare Supplement Plan G
This plan offers comprehensive coverage for nearly all Original Medicare gaps, excluding only the Part B deductible. Ideal for most seniors with average premiums around $144 for a 65-year-old. Perfect balance of value and protection.
Medicare is a cornerstone of healthcare for Americans aged 65 and older, but Original Medicare (Parts A and B) leaves many out-of-pocket costs uncovered. That's where AARP Medicare plans, underwritten by UnitedHealthcare, come in. These include popular Medigap (Supplement) policies, prescription drug coverage (Part D), and Medicare Advantage options. In this 2024 Review Atlas guide, we break down the pros, cons, costs, and key features to help you choose wisely.
Whether you're newly eligible or shopping during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 - December 7), understanding these plans can save you thousands. We'll compare top options, share real-world data, and provide actionable advice.
AARP partners with UnitedHealthcare to offer plans in nearly every state for those with Medicare Parts A and B. These aren't standalone policies—they supplement Original Medicare. Key benefits include:
Plans C and F are unavailable to new enrollees post-2020, shifting focus to G and N as favorites. Customer feedback highlights reliable claims processing, though premiums can rise with age or inflation.
Here's a side-by-side look at the most popular plans for a 65-year-old in average-health ZIP codes (rates vary by location, tobacco use, and gender):
| Plan | Key Coverage Highlights | Avg Monthly Premium (Men/Women, Age 65) | Out-of-Pocket Max | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G | All except Part B deductible ($240 in 2024) | $136 / $152 | None | Comprehensive coverage seekers |
| N | All except Part B deduct + $20 office/$50 ER copays | $115 / $128 | None | Budget-conscious with minor copays |
| D | All except Part B deduct + excess charges | $130 / $145 | None | Avoiding excess doctor fees |
| K | 50-100% coverage tiers | $85 / $95 | $6,820 | Low-premium with deductible |
| L | Higher tiers than K | $105 / $118 | $3,410 | Balanced cost-sharing |
Data sourced from 2024 national averages; check quotes for your area. Premiums increase ~5-8% annually.
Rated our top pick, Plan G covers 100% of hospital coinsurance, hospice care, skilled nursing, foreign travel emergencies, and more—minus the predictable Part B deductible.
Average Savings: Users avoid $5,000+ in annual out-of-pockets vs. Original Medicare alone.
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Plan N trades minor copays for lower premiums, appealing to active seniors.
Pro Tip: Ideal if you have a primary doctor and rarely visit ERs.
Standalone drug plans cover generics and brands not in Original Medicare. AARP offers 15+ options with stars ratings averaging 4/5.
Pros: Wide pharmacy network, mail-order discounts. Cons: Formulary changes, potential coverage gaps.
Private plans replacing Original Medicare, available in 27 states + DC. Includes extras:
2024 Averages: $0 premium in many areas, but $1,500 out-of-pocket max. Star ratings: 4.2/5 average.
Pros: Bundled perks, lower copays. Cons: HMO/PPO networks limit choices; potential benefit cuts.
| Feature | Medicare Supplement + Part D | Medicare Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Nationwide doctors | Network-restricted |
| Extras | None standard | Dental/vision often |
| Cost Predictability | Stable premiums | Caps but variables |
| Best For | Travelers, specialists | Stay-at-home, healthy |
Factors: Age (premiums rise 3-5%/year), location (HI/TX higher), gender (women pay more due to longevity).
Actionable Advice: Use the Open Enrollment guarantee-issue period (6 months from Part B start) for no underwriting.
From thousands of reviews, AARP scores 4.1/5 overall:
85% renew annually, per industry data.
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Plan G leads with 55% market share, offering robust coverage for a reasonable premium.
Averages $115-$152/month at age 65, rising to $200+ by 75. Shop multiple quotes.
Yes, during Annual Enrollment, but underwriting may apply outside guaranteed periods.
Most plans do, with $1,000-$2,000 annual allowances—check specifics.
Supplement: 49 states + DC. Advantage: 27 states + DC.
No, but increases are regulated and predictable.
Word count: 1520. Always consult a licensed agent for personalized advice.
