Finding the best healthcare plan this 2021 is as important as it is complicated. After all, there are many things to consider when choosing the perfect plan for ourselves and our loved ones as well. To help you with this dilemma, check out three of the best-reviewed Medicare plans that you can avail of in 2021. But before that, let us first take a quick look at the elements that one should consider when shopping for Medicare plans.
Healthcare Coverage
First, we need to look at the basic coverage of the two types of coverage offered by the federal government. The first one covers inpatient stays at hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and hospice. The second coverage pays for the outpatient services i.e. diagnostic tests, visit to the doctor, and medical therapies. The reason why we need to know about these general services is to make sure that we are getting the most of what we are paying for when it comes to other Medicare plans.
With that in idea, some of the best Medicare plans need to provide both aforementioned coverage plus more. In a post-pandemic world, we need to make healthcare a priority, which is why we researched studies and opinions from the people to look for the best plans that are available right now. Check out the three best healthcare plans that will best cover you in 2021.
1. Kaiser Permanente
On top of our list is Kaiser Permanente. After all, having an impressive record of 94.2% customer retention rate deserves to have the title as the best Medicare Advantage Plan provider overall. Kaiser Permanente, in addition to its amazing retention rate, also has the highest CMS star ratings in all states served by this provider. Part of what makes Kaiser Permanente preferred by most customers comes from its features like $0 deductible with every plan and $0 monthly premium option in most of its plans. Also, Kaiser Permanente features Advantage Plus options with multiple extra benefits and low annual out-of-pocket maximums.
On the downside, Kaiser Permanente is only available in California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Maryland, Oregon, Virginia, Washington, and the District of Columbia. Kaiser Permanente also offers mostly HMO plans meaning that you will receive care from network providers. They also require extra premiums for Advantage Plans benefits while Referrals and preauthorization may be required for specialist care, tests, and procedures.
2. Humana
Humana in contrast with AARP United Healthcare is known for being the best when it comes to extra benefits. You can browse their site for the various health and wellness benefits currently offered by Humana after you get quoted. Some of the PROs of Humana include mail delivery for prescription drugs (varies with the plan) and it comes with enough resources in managing chronic diseases. Newsweek also ranks Humana as #1 in terms of customer service. In addition, Humana features Humana Honor that is a plan designed specifically for military veterans and most of the plans include drug coverage.
On the downside, Humana has limited pharmacy options; PPO/PFFS does not offer other benefits than HMO.
3. AARP United Healthcare
AARP United Healthcare provides the best value when it comes to Medicare plans. Some of the PROs of AARP United Healthcare include national plan availability, which means that you need not worry about various coverage per state. All you need to do is jump into their website and ask for a quote no matter what state you reside in. Also, they offer three types of SNP (Special Needs Plans) that have an above-average satisfaction rating from millions of plan holders. Nearly 2.5 million members will have no monthly premium for 2021. AARP United Healthcare offers EPO, HMO, PFFs, POS, and PPO plans as well.
AARP United Healthcare on the downside has numerous complaints on coverage and limited online resources.
Weigh Down the Pros & Cons
Getting the best healthcare in 2021 is more important than ever. During these hard times where every dollar matters, it is important to do our research before we apply for something as important as a Medicare Advantage Plan. The list provided above are examples of the best providers in the country, nevertheless, as you may have noticed, each provider comes with its own pros and cons which can be a hassle sometimes.
To that end, the best thing that you can do is to do a bit of research on the providers available in your state. Get into their website for a free quote and compare. Another thing is that you must first consider or make a list of your needs to make sure that you will be getting your money’s worth. Try to get a free quote first and be sure to read the fine print of each plan to avoid confusion in the future. After all, in a post-pandemic world, health is literally our wealth.
Health.com, Best Medicare Advantage Plans 2021
MarketWatch, Finding the best Medicare plan for you