AARP Plan G vs. Plan G + Wellness Extras: What Is the Difference? (Standard vs. Level 2 Rates Explained)

If you request an AARP Medicare Supplement quote from UnitedHealthcare, you may see several versions of Plan G with different prices, such as Plan G + wellness extras, Plan G (UHICA), and Select Plan G + wellness extras. You may also see two price columns: a Standard Rate and a Level 2 Rate. This FAQ explains what those differences mean so you can pick the right plan.

Is the coverage different between the Plan G versions?

No. Medicare Supplement plans are standardized by the federal government, so every Plan G covers the same Medicare gaps no matter which company insures it. That includes the Part A deductible, hospital and skilled nursing coinsurance, Part B coinsurance, and Part B excess charges. With any Plan G, the only Medicare-approved cost you pay out of pocket is the annual Part B deductible.

The differences are the insurance company behind the plan, the extra member perks, and the price.

What is the difference between "Plan G + wellness extras" and "Plan G (UHICA)"?

• Insurance company: Plan G + wellness extras is insured by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company (UHIC). Plan G (UHICA) is insured by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company of America. They are separate policies with separate pricing, and their rates can change independently over time.
• Wellness extras: The "+ wellness extras" version includes member perks that are not part of the insurance coverage, such as a gym membership program, discounts on vision, hearing and dental services, and a 24/7 nurse line. These perks vary by location and UnitedHealthcare can change or discontinue them at any time.
• Price: Don't assume the version without extras is cheaper. Depending on your location and situation, the wellness extras version can cost the same or less. Always compare the actual monthly premiums on your quote.

What is "Select Plan G"?

Select Plan G (Medicare Select) offers the same Plan G benefits, but you must use network hospitals for non-emergency hospital care to get full coverage. Doctor visits are not limited to a network. In exchange for the hospital network requirement, Select plans usually cost less.

Can I switch between the versions later?

Switching from one version to another is treated as a new application, not a simple change. Outside of your Medigap Open Enrollment Period or a guaranteed issue situation, that usually means answering health questions, and you could be charged a higher rate or declined. It's best to choose the version that fits you when you first enroll.

What is the difference between the Standard Rate and the Level 2 Rate?

UnitedHealthcare uses rate levels in some states. Which rate you get depends on whether your acceptance is guaranteed and, if not, on your answers to the health questions on the application.

• You get the Standard Rate if: you are in your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (the 6 months starting when you are 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B), or you have a guaranteed issue right. In these situations you skip the health questions and your health can't raise your rate. You can also get the Standard Rate through underwriting if you don't have any of the conditions listed on the application.
• You may get the Level 2 Rate if: you apply outside a guaranteed enrollment window, go through medical underwriting, and have one of certain health conditions that don't disqualify you but do place you in the higher rate level.
• You may be declined if: you go through underwriting and have a more serious condition listed on the application.

UnitedHealthcare also reviews your prescription drug history during underwriting, because medications can indicate conditions listed on the application. Answer every health question accurately. The specific conditions that affect your rate level vary by state and are listed on your state's application.

Level 2 rates can be much higher than Standard Rates. If you would be placed at Level 2 with UnitedHealthcare, ask your agent to compare other carriers. Another company may offer you its best rate for the same Plan G coverage.

What does "with discount(s)" mean in the rate columns?

Both rate columns already include any discounts you qualify for, such as an enrollment discount based on your age, a household discount, or an automatic payment (EFT) discount. The numbers shown are what you would actually pay each month, assuming the discounts apply to you.

Which Plan G should I choose?

Since the Medicare coverage is identical, most people should compare three things:

• The monthly premium for your rate level
• Whether you would use the wellness extras
• Whether a Select plan's hospital network works for you

An independent agent can quote AARP alongside other Medicare Supplement carriers at no cost to you. Compare Plan G rates from multiple carriers in your area:

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Questions? Email us at help@ihealthagents.com and a licensed agent will help you compare your options.

Plan availability, perks, rate levels and premiums vary by state and are subject to change. AARP Medicare Supplement plans are insured by UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or an affiliate. Independent Health Agents is not affiliated with Medicare or any government agency.