AARP Medicare Supplement Plan F: Complete Coverage, Less Worry
As America’s senior population grows, securing a solid healthcare strategy is more critical than ever. One of the most discussed and once widely purchased plans is the AARP Medicare Supplement Plan F. Offered through UnitedHealthcare, this plan provided seniors with the most extensive coverage available among Medigap options. Despite its discontinuation for new enrollees after 2020, many are still eligible to keep or even enroll under certain conditions in 2025.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore why AARP Medicare Supplement Plan F has been a cornerstone for Medicare beneficiaries, the current state of the plan, what it covers, and whether it’s still worth considering in 2025.
What is a Medicare Supplement Plan?
Medicare Supplement Insurance—also known as Medigap—is designed to help fill the “gaps” in Original Medicare (Parts A and B). These gaps include deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, which can become financially burdensome.
There are 10 standardized Medigap plans available in most states, labeled A through N. Each offers a different level of coverage, and Plan F is the most comprehensive. The goal of Medigap is simple: to reduce out-of-pocket expenses and make healthcare more predictable for seniors.
Overview of AARP and UnitedHealthcare
AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people aged 50 and older. Through a licensing agreement, UnitedHealthcare offers AARP-branded Medicare Supplement plans. This collaboration has resulted in one of the most trusted Medigap options in the country, combining AARP’s credibility with UnitedHealthcare’s network strength.
Key Features of AARP Medicare Supplement Plan F
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Covers All Gaps in Original Medicare
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Nationwide Acceptance: Accepted by any provider that accepts Medicare
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Predictable Costs: No surprise bills or large out-of-pocket expenses
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Foreign Travel Emergency Coverage: For those who love to travel
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Guaranteed Renewable: Can’t be canceled for health conditions
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Peace of Mind: Simplicity and stability in your healthcare planning
Benefits of Choosing AARP Plan F
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Zero Out-of-Pocket Costs for Covered Services: You won’t pay copayments or coinsurance.
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Freedom of Provider Choice: Use any Medicare-accepting doctor.
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Travel Coverage: Emergencies abroad are partially covered.
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Guaranteed Issue Rights: Available in special circumstances even after the 2020 cut-off.
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Customer Support from UnitedHealthcare: Includes 24/7 nurse lines, discounts on health and wellness products, and digital tools.
What Does AARP Medicare Supplement Plan F Cover?
AARP Plan F offers the highest level of standardized benefits, including:
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Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs
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Medicare Part B coinsurance or copayment
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First three pints of blood
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Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment
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Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance
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Part A deductible
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Part B deductible
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Part B excess charges
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Foreign travel emergency (up to plan limits)
Simply put, Plan F covers everything Original Medicare does not, making it the most comprehensive Medigap plan available.
Eligibility and Enrollment for Plan F
To qualify for Plan F:
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You must have been eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
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You must be enrolled in Original Medicare Parts A and B.
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You must reside in a state where Plan F is offered.
Some people may qualify for Guaranteed Issue Rights, allowing them to enroll outside the standard window without medical underwriting.
Costs and Premiums Associated with Plan F
Premiums for Plan F vary based on:
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Age and Gender
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Location
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Tobacco Use
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Underwriting Class
On average, you can expect to pay between $150 to $300 per month, depending on these factors. Despite the higher premiums, many find the cost worth the peace of mind it offers.
Is Medicare Plan F Worth It?
While Plan F may come with a higher monthly premium, the value lies in its comprehensive nature. For those with chronic conditions or frequent medical needs, avoiding unexpected bills is invaluable.
For relatively healthy seniors, however, other plans like Plan G might offer better value with slightly more out-of-pocket exposure.
Why Is Medicare Plan F Being Discontinued?
Plan F is being phased out because it covers the Medicare Part B deductible, a provision that Congress decided was too generous. Lawmakers believe this can lead to overuse of healthcare services, thereby increasing costs for the entire system.
However, if you were eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020, you can still purchase or retain Plan F.
Alternative Plans to Consider
For those not eligible for Plan F, other strong options include:
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Plan G: Covers everything Plan F does except the Part B deductible.
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Plan N: Lower premiums with some copayments.
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High-Deductible Plan G: Same benefits as Plan G but with a higher deductible and lower premium.
These plans are becoming popular replacements for new beneficiaries.
Comparing AARP Plan F with Other Supplement Plans
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Plan F: Covers the Part A deductible, Part B deductible, Part B excess charges, and foreign travel emergency. It also does not require copays.
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Plan G: Covers everything Plan F does except the Part B deductible. It also doesn’t require copays.
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Plan N: Covers the Part A deductible and foreign travel emergency, but not the Part B deductible or excess charges. It does include copays for some services.
State-by-State Availability of Plan F
Plan F is available in most states but may vary based on:
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Regulatory changes
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Underwriting rules
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Enrollment periods
States like Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin have different Medigap structures, so availability may differ.
What Is the Best AARP Medicare Supplement Plan?
The “best” plan depends on your healthcare needs and budget:
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Plan F: Best for maximum coverage.
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Plan G: Best for new enrollees seeking comprehensive protection.
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Plan N: Ideal for those wanting lower premiums with some cost-sharing.
Ultimately, Plan F remains the best for those grandfathered in and seeking complete coverage.
How to Apply for AARP Medicare Supplement Plan F
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Confirm Eligibility (pre-2020 Medicare enrollment)
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Request a Quote from UnitedHealthcare
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Compare Plans and Costs
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Submit an Application
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Undergo Medical Underwriting (unless eligible for guaranteed issue)
Real-World Experiences from Plan F Users
Many seniors praise Plan F for its:
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Hassle-free billing
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Worry-free medical visits
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Predictable annual healthcare costs
Users say it helps them plan their finances more efficiently and provides a sense of control over unexpected health situations.
FAQs
What does AARP Medicare Supplemental Plan F cover?
It covers all out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare doesn’t, including Part A and B deductibles, coinsurance, excess charges, and even foreign emergency travel.
Is Medicare Plan F worth it?
Yes—if you use healthcare services regularly, Plan F offers unmatched peace of mind by covering virtually everything Medicare doesn’t.
Why is Medicare Plan F being discontinued?
The plan is being phased out due to its coverage of the Part B deductible, which Congress decided could encourage unnecessary use of services.
What is the best AARP medicare supplement plan?
If you’re eligible, Plan F offers the most comprehensive coverage. Otherwise, Plan G is the best alternative.
Can I still get Plan F in 2025?
Yes, if you were eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020, you can still purchase or retain Plan F.
Is AARP Plan F accepted nationwide?
Yes, it’s accepted anywhere Medicare is accepted, making it highly versatile.
Final Thoughts
Despite changes in Medicare regulations, AARP Medicare Supplement Plan F continues to stand out as a top-tier option for those eligible. With comprehensive coverage, predictable costs, and national acceptance, it remains a favorite for seniors who value peace of mind.
If you qualify, holding on to or enrolling in Plan F in 2025 may be one of the smartest healthcare decisions you can make.
Don’t leave your Medicare options to chance. Get a free quote today at Newmedicare.com or call 📞 (833) 203-6742.
