Blue Cross Blue Shield vs. UnitedHealthcare Medicare Plans

Choosing between Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and United Healthcare (UHC) for MedicareYou’re not alone – these two giants dominate the market.

But while their plans may look similar on paper, the right choice for you can depend on where you live, which doctors you want to keep, and whether extra perks or fitness benefits matter to you.

Throughout this page, we’ll cover:

  • Overviews of BCBS and UHC
  • The difference between the two companies
  • Medigap and Medicare Advantage offerings
  • Ratings and customer satisfaction

We’ll also discuss each company’s pros and cons, explore how their popular Medigap plan premiums compare by state, and explain why many ultimately choose Medigap over Medicare Advantage.

Let’s start with overviews of both providers.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Overview

Blue Cross Blue Shield isn’t just one company – it’s a federation of regional carriers like Anthem, Highmark, Independence, and Florida Blue.

Together, they cover every ZIP code in the U.S. and serve more than 100 million Americans.

When it comes to Medicare, they offer:

  • Medicare Advantage (MAPD) plans in many counties
  • Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies with strong brand trust
  • Competitive networks in-state (but often limited outside your region)

BCBS plans are deeply local. That can be a good thing, but it also means offerings and member experiences can vary depending on which BCBS carrier serves your area.

Pros and Cons of Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare

Pros
  • Trusted name with long-standing local roots
  • Access to a wide local and national provider network
  • Available in all 50 states through regional carriers
  • PPO and HMO Medicare Advantage options in most counties
  • Competitive Medigap pricing in many areas
  • Florida Blue (in particular) offers strong dental integration and chronic care support
  • Household discounts (often 5–12%)
Cons
  • Plan quality varies by region – not all BCBS carriers are equal
  • Out-of-state provider access can be more limited
  • Customer service depends on the local carrier (some are stronger than others)
  • Benefits and perks (like gym or dental) are not standardized across plans
Is Blue Cross Blue Shield Offered in Every State?

Yes – but not always in the way you expect.

BCBS operates as a federation, not a single company. That means Anthem might issue your Medicare plan in one state, Highmark in another, or Florida Blue in Florida. Each one is independent, though all follow federal CMS rules.

Why it matters:

  • Plan names, networks, premiums, and customer service can vary
  • If you travel a lot or relocate, your plan might not travel well
  • Check not just the BCBS brand, but the actual carrier name and local reviews

United Healthcare Overview

United Healthcare is the largest Medicare Advantage insurer in the country and offers nationwide consistency in its plans and service.

Unlike BCBS, UHC is a single national company with over 7 million Medicare Advantage enrollees.

Here’s what they offer:

  • Medigap policies (Plan G, N, etc.)
  • Broad Medicare Advantage offerings with dental/vision/gym perks
  • Excellent national reach – UHC is in all 50 states

UHC excels in brand consistency, so it’s hard to beat if you’re looking for predictability and nationwide coverage.

Pros and Cons of United Healthcare Medicare

Pros
  • Nationwide network access with many PPO plans
  • Medigap plans with added discounts
  • Plans in all 50 states with a consistent structure
  • Good dental, vision, and hearing extras on MA plans
  • One of the largest Medicare Advantage networks
  • Access to Renew Active – a great gym and wellness program
  • Discounts for households, automatic payments, and more
Cons
  • Some plans have narrower provider networks (especially HMOs)
  • Medigap rates may be higher in some states than competitors
  • Plans can have higher out-of-pocket maxes vs. smaller insurers
  • You may not need all the “extras” bundled in (adds cost for some)
Is UHC Offered in Every State?

Yes, United Healthcare (UHC) is offered in every U.S. state.

As the largest Medicare insurer in the country, UHC has built a broad network and comprehensive presence, ensuring that both Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are widely available.

However, it’s important to review local plan details since benefits, provider networks, and premiums can vary widely by region.

What’s the Real Difference Between BCBS and UHC?

Truthfully? Not much – on paper.

Both companies offer MAPD and Medigap plans that follow the same Medicare rules.

The real differences show up in:

  • Your doctor and pharmacy networks
  • Plan premiums in your ZIP code
  • Medigap perks (like household discounts or gym benefits)
  • Which carrier your hospital or specialist prefer to work with
  • In a nutshell:

    If you like local service and in-state brand loyalty, BCBS might win.

    If you prefer nationwide consistency and big-brand perks, UHC often delivers.

BCBS vs. UHC: Medigap Comparison

If you’re shopping for a Medicare Supplement plan, there’s a good chance you’ve narrowed it down to two names: Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and United Healthcare (UHC).

And honestly? That’s a great place to be. These are two of the largest, most reliable insurers in the country when it comes to Medigap – but they’re not exactly the same.

Let’s walk through the key differences and what really matters when choosing between them.

What Plans Do They Offer?

Both BCBS and UHC offer the most popular Medigap options – Plan G and Plan N. These are standardized plans, meaning the benefits are exactly the same no matter which company you go with.

What does change? Your monthly premium, the customer experience, and the extras.

Here’s a quick breakdown on what each plan covers.

FeaturePlan GPlan N
Part A coinsuranceCoveredCovered
Part B coinsuranceCoveredCovered with small copays for office/ER visits
Part B excess chargesCoveredNot Covered
Part B deductible ($257 in 2025)Not CoveredNot Covered
Foreign travel coverageCoveredCovered

Plan G is the most comprehensive option for new enrollees. Plan N offers similar coverage but lower premiums and a bit more cost-sharing.

How Do Their Plan G Premiums Compare?

When evaluating Medicare Supplement Plan G options, pricing can vary significantly by state and carrier, even for individuals of the same age and health profile.

To help you navigate your choices, we’ve compiled a comparison of estimated monthly premiums for Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and United Healthcare (UHC) for a 65-year-old, non-tobacco user across several key states.

The table below outlines the estimated monthly premium ranges by state and key contexts that may affect your decision.

Plan G Price Comparison: BCBS vs. UHC 

State BCBS Plan G (est.) UHC Plan G (est.) Notes
Florida $175–$210 $165–$185 UHC often has broader Advantage availability; BCBS may offer stronger Medigap discounts
Texas $120–$150 $115–$135 UHC slightly cheaper; both offer household discounts
California $140–$160 $125–$145 UHC more competitive for new enrollees; BCBS has regional strength
Arizona $130–$155 $120–$145 Both strong; BCBS available via AZ Blue
Pennsylvania $135–$165 $130–$150 Very competitive market; Highmark BCBS performs well here
New Jersey $145–$170 $135–$160 BCBS offers some area-specific perks; UHC widely accepted

Ultimately, while both BCBS and UHC offer strong Plan G options, your best choice will depend on your location, budget, and individual healthcare priorities.

UHC often shines with slightly lower premiums and broader availability, particularly for new enrollees, while BCBS may appeal to those looking for localized perks or long-term rate stability.

Be sure to consider not only the upfront cost but also the value of additional benefits, provider networks, and potential discounts when choosing the plan that fits you best.

Which Has Had More Rate Increases?

Here’s the truth: Both BCBS and UHC are well-established and not prone to big swings in premiums.

That said:

  • UHC has built a reputation for smaller, steadier increases, often 2–5% annually.
  • BCBS is more variable, since each state’s plan is run by a different company. Some have excellent rate histories, while others see steeper jumps.

If predictability is your top priority, UHC has the edge. But if you value local service or already have BCBS coverage (like with Florida Blue), staying within that ecosystem could make sense.

BCBS vs. UHC: Medicare Advantage

If you’ve spent any time watching TV or checking your mailbox during the fall, you’ve probably seen ads from both Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) and United Healthcare (UHC).

These two giants dominate the Medicare Advantage (MAPD) market. They offer wide plan availability, recognizable branding, and attractive extras like dental, vision, and gym memberships.

But under the hood, their plans aren’t identical – especially when it comes to what’s available where you live.

Plan Availability, Networks, and Extras

Both BCBS and UHC offer $0 Medicare Advantage premium options in many counties, along with PPO and HMO choices that bundle in drug coverage (Part D).

Here’s a quick overview of what they typically bring to the table:

FeatureUnitedHealthcare (UHC)Blue Cross Blue Shield (Varies by State)
Plan TypesHMO, PPO, some SNPsHMO, PPO, some SNPs
Monthly Premiums$0 to $60 in most areas$0 to $70 depending on the state
Provider Network SizeOne of the largest in the U.S.; strong national reachStrong in-state networks (varies by BCBS affiliate)
Dental/Vision/HearingIncluded in most plansIncluded in many plans, varies by BCBS licensee
Gym MembershipsRenew Active (UHC’s version of SilverSneakers)Typically SilverSneakers or a similar fitness benefit
ExtrasOTC allowance, telehealth, insulin savings, Part B rebateSimilar, though varies heavily by plan and region

Our Thoughts:

  • UHC is consistent nationwide and has broad provider contracts that appeal to snowbirds, veterans, and frequent travelers.
  • BCBS, because it’s a federation of state-specific companies, can feel more local. If you live in Florida, you’ll see Florida Blue. In Pennsylvania, Highmark. That can be a plus for customer service, but offerings can vary significantly from state to state.

Why I Recommend Medigap Over Advantage - Especially Now

Here’s the part no one tells you until you’re knee-deep in bills and referrals: Medicare Advantage isn’t always the “free” option it appears to be.

Sure, the $0 premium sounds great, but what about:

  • Network restrictions?
  • Prior authorizations for basic services?
  • Referrals needed just to see a specialist?

And that’s before the annual plan changes, which can suddenly make your coverage less generous or your doctors “out-of-network.” Let’s talk about some of those recent changes.

The 2024 AEP Shake-Up

During the 2024 Annual Enrollment Period, UHC and BCBS made major changes to their MAPD lineups.

Why? CMS cut reimbursement rates, so insurers responded by tightening networks, adjusting copays, and reducing some supplemental benefits, such as dental and over-the-counter allowances.

Medigap stayed the same. That’s the beauty of it.

With Medigap:

  • You don’t need referrals.
  • You won’t get hit with surprise out-of-pocket costs.
  • You can see any doctor who accepts Medicare, anywhere in the country.
  • Your plan doesn’t change year to year unless you decide to switch.
  • There’s no prior authorization red tape for tests or procedures.

To give you a closer look, below is some information showing how often prior authorization denial rates occur.

Medicare Advantage Prior Authorization Denial Rates by Insurer

InsurerDenial Rate
Centene13.6%
CVS Health (Aetna)11.0%
Kaiser Permanente10.0%
UnitedHealthcare9.1%
Cigna7.7%
Blue Cross Blue Shield5.8%
Anthem (Elevance Health)4.3%
Humana3.5%

Notably, Centene and CVS Health (Aetna) had the highest denial rates, while Humana and Anthem (Elevance Health) reported the lowest.

Despite the initial denials, a significant portion of the appealed cases were overturned:

  • Centene: 93.6% of appeals overturned
  • CVS Health (Aetna): 89.7%
  • United Healthcare: 85.2%
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield: 80.7%

This high rate of overturned denials suggests that many initial denials may not be justified, potentially delaying necessary care for beneficiaries.

Our Advice

While Medicare Advantage plans offer additional benefits and lower premiums, the variability in denial rates and the potential for delayed care due to prior authorization requirements are important considerations.

Beneficiaries should carefully review plan details, including denial rates and appeal processes, to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage.

Medigap plans are a preferable alternative for those seeking more predictable coverage with fewer restrictions, as they typically do not require prior authorizations and offer broader provider access.

We often call Medigap the “set it and forget it” option. Choose a good Plan G or Plan N, make sure the premium works for your budget, and then revisit every couple of years to see if a better deal is available. That’s it.

For clients who value predictability, provider freedom, and peace of mind, we almost always recommend Medigap – especially if they travel, live in more than one state, or simply want to avoid the fine print headaches of Medicare Advantage.

Now that we’ve established why Medigap is the better choice, let’s look at some other providers that offer these plans.

BCBS and UHC vs. the Medigap Competition

When it comes to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, many people are surprised to learn that the core benefits are exactly the same, no matter which insurance company you choose. That’s because all Medigap plans are standardized by Medicare.

That means Plan G from Aetna will cover the same things as a Plan G from United Healthcare or Florida Blue.

The difference really comes down to pricing, rate stability, discounts, and extra perks each company offers. Let’s look at how BCBS and UHC stack up against some of the other top names in the Medigap space:

United Healthcare (UHC)

Pros: Nationwide availability, stable rate history, great wellness perks (like Renew Active gym membership), solid household discounts.

Ideal for: Seniors who value brand reputation, long-term affordability, and consistency across states.

Blue Cross Blue Shield (varies by state)

Pros: Strong regional presence, good local customer support, often includes access to dental/vision discount programs, and strong Medigap-MA integration if you’re already with BCBS.

Ideal for: People who like the brand or already have a BCBS plan (like Florida Blue) for other coverage.

Aetna

Pros: Excellent brand awareness, backed by CVS Health, solid rate stability, offers electronic applications with fast approval.

Cons: Fewer member perks than UHC or BCBS; household discounts not available in all states

Best for: Brand-conscious shoppers looking for a reliable Plan G or N with steady rates.

Cigna

Pros: Often among the lowest premiums, offers one of the highest household discounts, add on plan availability such as Dental, Vision and Hearing plans, excellent customer service.

Cons: Their application process time is longer than competitors.

Best for: Price driven shoppers seeking low rates coupled with great customer service.

Humana

Pros: Household discounts, user-friendly enrollment, available in many rural ZIP codes.

Cons: Rates can trend higher after the first few years; fewer perks.

Best for: Seniors who value simplicity and are already Humana members through Medicare Advantage or Part D.

Aflac

Pros: Newer to the Medigap market with competitive rates in some areas, strong customer service reputation, brand name recognition.

Cons: Limited availability (not in every state), small market share for Medigap so less rate history to review.

Best for: Those looking for a fresh alternative with potential for strong early pricing.

  • Important:

    No matter which company you choose, a Plan G is a Plan G. The real difference is what you pay, how your rates change over time, and whether the carrier offers things like:

    Household or multi-policy discounts

    Gym memberships

    Dental or vision perks

    Strong customer service and claims handling

UHC and BCBS both lead the pack regarding stability and brand trust, but don’t count out lower-cost options like Cigna or emerging players like Aflac – especially if you’re in a price-sensitive market.

If you’re unsure which direction to take, we recommend comparing quotes from at least 3 to 4 companies in your ZIP code. Often, the best fit is a mix of price, reputation, and convenience.

Here’s a chart breaking down these competitors to give you an even better idea.  We’ve included their strengths, typical Plan G premiums, and discount options.

Medicare Supplement Company Comparison 

CompanyStrengthsTypical Monthly Cost (Plan G)*Household DiscountsNotable Extras
UnitedHealthcareNationwide reach, stable rate increases, trusted brand$110–$140Yes (varies by state)Renew Active gym membership
Blue Cross Blue ShieldStrong state presence, great service, plan bundling available$120–$150Yes (in some states)Dental/vision discounts
AetnaStrong brand recognition, good underwriting flexibility$125-$150Not alwaysCVS Health-owned, simple enrollment
HumanaEasy to apply, decent member perks, rural availability$100–$130YesLoyalty discount, basic perks
CignaLower premiums, excellent customer service$95–$125YesHigh household discount
AflacCompetitive intro pricing, trusted name, growing footprint$100–$135Yes (varies states)Great service reputation

*Estimates are for 65-year-olds in most Florida ZIP codes and may vary based on age, gender, and discounts applied.

BCBS vs. UHC: Ratings and Customer Satisfaction

When comparing Medicare providers, reputation matters – especially when it comes to customer service, plan satisfaction, and claims experience.

Let’s look at how Blue Cross Blue Shield and United Healthcare stack up in the eyes of consumers and industry watchdogs.

CMS Star Ratings (2024)

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rates Medicare Advantage and Part D plans annually on a 5-star scale.

United Healthcare: Many of UHC’s Medicare Advantage plans received ratings between 3.5 and 4.5 stars in 2024. UHC typically earns high marks for preventive care measures and member satisfaction.

Blue Cross Blue Shield: BCBS plans vary more by region due to their federation model. Some affiliates like Highmark and Anthem tend to score 4+ stars, while others range from 3.0–4.0 depending on state.

J.D. Power Member Satisfaction (2023 Report)

J.D. Power ranks Medicare Advantage plans based on customer satisfaction, plan costs, coverage, and communication.

United Healthcare: Consistently ranks above average, especially for ease of use, network access, and customer service.

Blue Cross Blue Shield: Scores fluctuate due to the independent nature of BCBS affiliates. Anthem (a major BCBS affiliate) has scored around the industry average, with strong marks in some states and mixed reviews in others.

Complaint Ratios (NAIC)

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) tracks complaint ratios by carrier.

UHC: Generally shows a low complaint ratio – often better than the national average – for Medicare Advantage and Medigap.

BCBS: Also performs well overall, though some regional affiliates have higher-than-average complaint ratios, usually related to network restrictions or billing issues.

What Members Say

UHC members appreciate the large network, online tools, and bundled vision/dental benefits – but some report frustration with prior authorization and formularies.

BCBS members often highlight the localized support and strong brand trust, especially in regions where BCBS is dominant. Experiences vary more widely based on the state and BCBS affiliate.

BCBS vs. UHC: Regional Strengths (Medigap)

When comparing Medigap plans, it’s important to move beyond brand recognition and focus on what really matters: pricing and stability in your state. Since Medigap benefits are standardized across insurers, the key differentiators are cost, rate history, and local service quality.

United Healthcare (UHC) is particularly strong in states like Texas, where it consistently offers lower average premiums for both Plan G and Plan N. Its broad reach and streamlined underwriting process make it appealing for many new enrollees.

Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), on the other hand, often leads in states like Florida, California, Arizona, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. These regional wins are typically driven by local Blue affiliates, such as Anthem, AZ Blue, and Highmark, which maintain strong relationships with in-state provider networks and offer competitive pricing through localized strategy.

Let’s take a closer look at the 2025 average pricing estimates for Medigap Plan G and Plan N by state:

Plan G Comparison (2025 Estimates)

StateUHC Avg Plan GBCBS Avg Plan GWinner
Florida$235$234 (Florida Blue)Florida Blue
Texas$203$210UHC
California$228$222BCBS (Anthem)
Arizona$199$193BCBS (AZ Blue)
Pennsylvania$205$195 (Highmark BCBS)BCBS
New Jersey$235$220BCBS

 Plan N Comparison (2025 Estimates)

StateUHC Avg Plan NBCBS Avg Plan NWinner
Florida$200$192Florida Blue
Texas$168$172UHC
California$188$180BCBS
Arizona$169$165BCBS
Pennsylvania$174$169BCBS
New Jersey$192$181BCBS

Takeaway:

UHC has the pricing edge in Texas, especially for Plan G.

BCBS leads in Florida, California, Arizona, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, likely due to stronger regional partnerships and negotiated provider pricing.

These patterns are a direct result of how both companies structure plans through regional CMS contracts and state-by-state provider negotiations.

UHC may focus on broader availability across states, while BCBS affiliates often focus on deeper provider access and brand trust within their specific region.

Let’s switch gears and talk about some commonly asked questions we receive.

Why Are Hospitals Dropping UnitedHealthcare?

Over the past couple of years, we’ve seen a growing number of hospitals and health systems across the country cutting ties with United Healthcare – and if you’re on one of their Medicare Advantage plans, this could directly affect your care.

So what’s going on?

The heart of the issue boils down to two big things: money and red tape.

#1. Reimbursement Disputes (Money): Hospitals are saying UHC simply doesn’t pay enough.

For example, Duke Health in North Carolina reported that United Healthcare’s payment rates were far below what other insurers offer – so low, in fact, they called them “unacceptable.”

And over in Connecticut, Hartford HealthCare was in a standoff with UHC after asking for a 20% increase (which UHC said would drive up premiums too much).

#2. High Denial Rates and Administrative Hurdles (Red Tape): It’s not just about how much UHC pays – it’s also about how hard it is to get paid.

Several hospitals, including Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and HealthPartners in Minnesota, say UHC denies claims at alarmingly high rates.

In OHSU’s case, over 50% of UHC claims were denied – compared to a typical industry rate of about 5–10%. That’s a huge difference.

On top of that, payments often take months to process, adding financial stress and paperwork overload.

Here are some real-life examples:

  • Minnesota: HealthPartners will drop all UHC Medicare Advantage plans in 2025, impacting about 30,000 people.
  • New York: Mount Sinai Health System cut ties with UHC, leaving over 100,000 patients scrambling to find new providers.
  • North Carolina: Duke Health is about to go out-of-network with UHC, potentially disrupting care for more than 170,000 patients.
  • HCA Hospitals: A contract dispute almost kicked 38 hospitals out of UHC’s network before a last-minute deal was made.

If you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan with UHC, keep an eye on your provider network. These contract breakdowns can lead to surprise bills, fewer doctor options, and extra hassle, especially if you have ongoing treatment or chronic health needs.

This is one of the main reasons we recommend Medigap (Medicare Supplement) to clients who want stability. Unlike Medicare Advantage, Medigap doesn’t rely on provider contracts.

You can see any doctor that accepts Medicare – no referrals, no network games, and no mid-year surprises.

When hospitals start saying no to an insurer, it’s a signal that patients could be next to feel the impact. If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to reconsider your Medicare coverage, this could be your cue.

Why Are BCBS and UHC Dropping Some Medicare Advantage Plans?

If you’ve noticed more headlines about insurers pulling back on Medicare Advantage plans lately, you’re not alone – and it’s not just you.

Both Blue Cross Blue Shield (through its regional carriers) and United Healthcare have scaled back in certain counties for 2024 and 2025. But why?

The short version: it’s mostly about money and regulation.

Medicare Advantage is a government-funded program, and CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) decides how much insurers get paid to administer these plans. Over the last year, CMS has trimmed reimbursement rates and added stricter rules, like tighter medical loss ratio requirements (which force insurers to spend a minimum percentage of premiums directly on patient care).

For some counties, especially rural or lower-population areas, these changes make it hard for insurers to turn a profit. As a result, some Blue Cross affiliates and even United Healthcare have pulled their plans from specific zip codes.

That doesn’t mean they’re leaving the Medicare Advantage market entirely – just that they’re focusing on areas where they can still make the math work.

Notable Lawsuits and Complaints

Large insurers like UHC and BCBS naturally face scrutiny, especially when it comes to their Medicare Advantage operations. Here’s what’s come up recently:

#1. Prior Authorization Backlash: Both companies have faced criticism (and in some cases, formal complaints) about overuse of prior authorization, where the plan requires approval before a treatment is covered. This has become a hot-button issue across the industry.

#2. Class Action Noise: While nothing specific to Blue Cross or UHC has become headline-worthy in the last few months, both have faced past lawsuits over claims processing delays or network adequacy concerns. These are more common in Medicare Advantage, where insurers manage care more tightly.

#3. CMS Sanctions: In recent months, no major sanctions have hit UHC or BCBS. However, CMS publishes regular audits and star ratings, sometimes reflecting temporary customer service or plan administration issues.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, Blue Cross Blue Shield and United Healthcare are two of the biggest names in Medicare for good reason. They both offer solid coverage, wide plan availability, and decades of experience in the space.

If you’re looking at Medicare Advantage, the right choice really depends on your ZIP code, your doctors, and your prescriptions. In one county, UHC might offer more plan choices and extra perks. In another, BCBS might have a better provider network and local reputation.

But here’s the thing we’ve learned from working with thousands of clients over the years: Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are where most people find true peace of mind. You’re not worrying about networks, prior authorizations, or whether a surgery will be approved.

You get the freedom to see any doctor who takes Medicare, anywhere in the country. And once you lock in a plan, especially early on, you can often “set it and forget it” – just occasionally shop the rate to keep things competitive.

We’ve also seen that both BCBS and UHC have strengths in the Medigap space. UHC usually starts with lower premiums and stable rate increases, especially for new enrollees. BCBS may cost a little more upfront in some places, but it often comes with generous household discounts or state-specific perks.

If you’re trying to decide which route to take or which company best fits your needs, we can help. Our licensed agents specialize in Medicare, and we’re here to help you compare quotes, break down plan options, and walk you through the next steps without pressure or confusion.

FAQ's

  • Why do doctors not like Medicare Advantage plans?

    Many doctors are frustrated with Medicare Advantage (MA) plans because of the red tape. These plans often require prior authorizations for routine or necessary procedures, which adds administrative burden and delays care. On top of that, MA plans tend to reimburse providers at lower rates than Original Medicare, making them less appealing to busy clinics and specialists. That’s why some doctors opt out or limit the number of MA patients they accept.

  • Why is Blue Cross Blue Shield so popular?

    It comes down to trust and familiarity. Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) has been around for decades and has built its reputation through employer coverage. Many people nearing Medicare age already had BCBS through work, so sticking with a familiar name feels like a safe bet. Plus, because BCBS operates regionally through companies like Anthem or Highmark, it often offers local customer service and strong provider networks, especially for Medigap.

  • Does United Healthcare cover groceries?

    In some Medicare Advantage plans, yes. United Healthcare (UHC) offers certain MA plans with a combined OTC and healthy food card. This prepaid debit card can be used at participating stores to buy groceries like produce, dairy, and even pantry staples. It’s typically available to Medicaid/Medicare dual-eligible members or those with chronic conditions, not across the board, but definitely a nice perk for those who qualify.

  • Can I switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap later?

    You can, but it’s not always easy. Outside your initial Medicare enrollment or other special periods, switching from MA to Medigap usually requires health underwriting. That means the insurance company can deny your application based on preexisting conditions. That’s why many advisors recommend starting with Medigap if you can afford it – switching back later isn’t guaranteed.

  • Which is better: Medicare Advantage or Medigap?

    There’s no one-size-fits-all answer – it depends on your health, finances, and lifestyle. Medicare Advantage plans tend to have low or zero premiums and include extras like dental or vision, but they come with copays, networks, and annual changes. Medigap has a higher upfront cost but offers stability: no referrals, no networks, and minimal out-of-pocket costs. If you travel often or want freedom and predictability, Medigap usually wins out.

Mark Prip

Since 2003, Mark Prip has been leading  Policy Guide, Inc., providing knowledgeable information about Medicare, life insurance, and dental coverage to clients in over forty states. With his unparalleled hands-on experience aiding countless Medicare beneficiaries in selecting an appropriate health plan, he is a prime example amongst other competitors for expertise and assistance. Mark has held his Florida Health & Life Insurance License (E051889) since 2003. View his license profile on the Florida Department of Insurance website.