Rating & Reviewing the Best Medicare Supplement Providers: Cigna, USAA, AARP, UnitedHealthcare
As you approach retirement age or qualify for Medicare, you may notice that Original Medicare doesn't cover all healthcare expenses. That's where Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap) come in. These plans help cover costs such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles that aren’t paid for by Original Medicare (Parts A and B). Choosing the right Medicare Supplement provider is crucial to ensure you're adequately covered without breaking the bank.

In this article, we’ll review some of the top Medicare Supplement providers—including Cigna Medicare Supplement, USAA Medicare Supplement, AARP Medicare Supplement, and UnitedHealthcare Medicare Supplement Plans—to help you make an informed decision.
1. Cigna Medicare Supplement Plans
Cigna is one of the leading healthcare providers, offering a wide range of Medicare Supplement plans that cater to various health and financial needs. With over 200 years in the industry, Cigna has a strong reputation for excellent customer service and a reliable network of providers.
Pros:
Offers plans in nearly every state.
Wide range of Medigap plan options, including popular plans like Plan F, Plan G, and Plan N.
Discounts available for household members.
24/7 customer service to help answer questions about coverage or claims.
Competitive pricing compared to other providers.
Cons:
Availability of specific plans may vary by location.
Some users report that premium prices may increase after a few years of coverage.
Best For:
Seniors who want comprehensive Medicare Supplement coverage with added customer support.
Those looking for discounts if more than one person in the household needs coverage.
2. USAA Medicare Supplement Plans
USAA is well-known for serving military families with a range of insurance products, including Medicare Supplement plans. The company has a long-standing reputation for excellent customer service and affordable rates for those who have served in the military.
Pros:
Exclusively serves military members, veterans, and their families.
Offers a variety of Medigap plans with competitive pricing.
Excellent reputation for customer service.
Offers additional services tailored specifically for veterans and their families.
Cons:
Available only to military members and their families.
Limited availability of certain plans in select states.
Best For:
Veterans or current military members looking for a trusted Medicare Supplement provider.
Seniors who want affordable rates with specialized coverage.
3. AARP Medicare Supplement Plans
AARP, in partnership with UnitedHealthcare, offers a variety of Medigap plans that cover many healthcare costs not included in Original Medicare. With a wide range of options and a strong national presence, AARP/UnitedHealthcare is one of the most popular choices for Medicare Supplement insurance.
Pros:
Broad selection of plans across all states, including Plan F, Plan G, and Plan N.
Trusted partnership with UnitedHealthcare ensures a solid network of doctors and hospitals.
Affordable pricing for various plans with additional benefits like vision and dental coverage.
Discounts for AARP members.
Cons:
Premiums may be higher for certain plans compared to other providers.
The application process can be lengthy and require more documentation.
Best For:
AARP members looking for discounted rates and comprehensive Medigap coverage.
Seniors who prefer having a trusted brand with wide availability and additional member benefits.
4. UnitedHealthcare Medicare Supplement Plans
UnitedHealthcare is one of the largest healthcare providers in the United States and offers a comprehensive selection of Medicare Supplement plans. Their extensive network and broad coverage options make them a popular choice for those seeking added Medicare protection.
Pros:
Offers a broad range of Medigap plans, including Plan A, Plan B, Plan F, Plan G, and Plan N.
Provides access to a large network of healthcare providers.
Discounts are available for customers who enroll online or early.
Strong reputation for claims processing and customer service.
Cons:
Premium prices can be higher in certain states.
Some users report issues with customer service during enrollment periods.
Best For:
Those looking for comprehensive Medicare Supplement coverage from a nationally recognized provider.
Seniors who need a wide network of providers and robust customer service.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Medicare Supplement Plan
Costs and Premiums: Compare the monthly premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs across providers to see which plan fits your budget.
Coverage Options: Look for a plan that offers the coverage you need. Plans F and G are popular for their comprehensive benefits, but other plans like Plan N might offer more cost-saving opportunities.
Provider Reputation: Always check reviews and ratings for customer service, claims processing, and overall satisfaction.
Eligibility for Discounts: Some providers offer household or early sign-up discounts, which can help reduce your premium costs.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Medicare Supplement provider is a critical decision that can impact your healthcare coverage and financial well-being. Each provider we’ve reviewed—Cigna, USAA, AARP, and UnitedHealthcare—offers unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to evaluate what works best for your specific needs.
Be sure to compare the various plans offered, understand the pros and cons of each, and consider your healthcare priorities. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision that provides peace of mind for your health and finances.
FAQs
1. What is Medicare Supplement (Medigap) insurance?
Medigap policies are sold by private companies to help cover some of the healthcare costs that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
2. Can I switch my Medicare Supplement provider?
Yes, you can switch providers at any time, but you may have to undergo medical underwriting unless you are in a guaranteed-issue period.
3. What is the difference between Medicare Supplement Plan F and Plan G?
Plan F covers everything that Original Medicare doesn’t, while Plan G covers everything except the Medicare Part B deductible.
4. Are Medicare Supplement plans available in every state?
Most Medicare Supplement plans are available nationwide, but plan availability and pricing may vary depending on your location.
5. How do I enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan?
You can enroll during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which starts the first month you’re 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this time, you can sign up without medical underwriting.
6. Does Medicare Supplement cover prescription drugs?
No, Medigap does not cover prescription drugs. For drug coverage, you will need a Medicare Part D plan.
7. Is it worth getting a Medicare Supplement Plan?
For many seniors, Medigap is worth it because it covers additional costs like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles that Original Medicare doesn’t cover.
Take control of your healthcare coverage by exploring the best Medicare Supplement providers today. Whether you opt for Cigna, USAA, AARP, or UnitedHealthcare, finding the right fit will ensure you have peace of mind and robust coverage in the years ahead.