How to Switch to AARP Plan F Without Losing Coverage?

Switching to a new health insurance plan can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re making the transition to a more comprehensive plan like AARP Plan F. If you’re considering switching to AARP Plan F, it’s essential to understand how to make the change seamlessly without losing coverage during the process. Whether you’re currently covered under another Medicare Supplement plan or a different PPO option like Cigna PPO Plans, the goal is to ensure that your healthcare needs continue to be met without any gaps. This guide will walk you through how to switch to AARP Plan F while keeping your coverage intact.

Understanding AARP Plan F And CIGNA PPO Plans

Before making the switch, it’s crucial to understand what you’re currently covered under and what you’ll be switching to.

AARP Plan F is one of the most popular Medicare Supplement plans, offering extensive coverage for individuals enrolled in Original Medicare. It covers all of the Medicare-approved expenses that Medicare Part A and Part B do not, including copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Plan F is known for its comprehensive benefits, making it an attractive choice for many seniors who want to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

On the other hand, Cigna PPO Plans are a type of Preferred Provider Organization plan that combines the flexibility of a PPO with the benefits of Medicare. Cigna PPO plans typically offer coverage for Medicare Part A and Part B, along with the ability to choose healthcare providers without a referral. These plans often include extra benefits such as prescription drug coverage and dental services, depending on the specific plan you select.

Both options provide solid coverage, but Plan F is typically a better choice for those who prefer a more comprehensive approach to covering out-of-pocket Medicare expenses. If you’re currently enrolled in a Cigna PPO plan and want to switch to AARP Plan F, here’s how you can do it smoothly.

Review Your Current Coverage

Before making any changes, carefully review your current Cigna PPO plan to ensure you understand your existing coverage. Take note of the benefits, coverage limits, and any extra services you’re receiving, such as dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage. You’ll also need to know the costs associated with your current plan, including monthly premiums, deductibles, and copayments. Understanding your current coverage will help you compare it to AARP Plan F, which does not include prescription drug coverage or other supplemental benefits such as dental and vision. If these benefits are important to you, you may need to consider adding a standalone Part D plan or other supplementary coverage alongside Plan F.

Check Your Eligibility For AARP Plan F

To switch to AARP Plan F, you must first meet the eligibility requirements. AARP Plan F is only available to individuals who are enrolled in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). Additionally, Plan F is no longer available for new enrollees as of January 1, 2020, due to changes in Medicare regulations. However, if you were eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020, you can still apply for and enroll in Plan F. If you are eligible for Plan F, verify that it is available in your area through the AARP/UnitedHealthcare network. AARP partners with UnitedHealthcare to offer Plan F, so you’ll need to apply through them.

Compare Plan F With Your Current CIGNA PPO Plan

Once you confirm your eligibility, take time to compare the benefits of AARP Plan F with your Cigna PPO plan. Both plans offer strong coverage, but Plan F is known for covering more out-of-pocket costs associated with Medicare, such as:

• Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs
• Medicare Part B coinsurance or copayment
• Medicare Part A deductible
• Medicare Part B deductible
• Medicare Part B excess charges (if your doctor charges more than the Medicare-approved amount)

However, AARP Plan F does not provide prescription drug coverage, and it does not cover any additional benefits you might receive through a PPO plan, such as dental, vision, or hearing coverage. If you need these additional benefits, you’ll need to explore other options for supplemental coverage.

Check Enrollment Periods

To switch from a Cigna PPO plan to AARP Plan F without losing coverage, it’s important to be mindful of Medicare enrollment periods. The best time to make the switch is during one of the following periods:

• Medicare Open Enrollment (October 15 to December 7): This is the most common time for individuals to switch their Medicare plans. During this period, you can switch from one Medicare Advantage plan (like a Cigna PPO plan) to another or switch to a Medicare Supplement plan like AARP Plan F.

• Guaranteed Issue Rights: If you are switching from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement plan like Plan F, you may have guaranteed issue rights under certain circumstances. For example, if you are leaving a Medicare Advantage plan due to a move out of the plan’s service area or the plan’s termination, you may be able to switch to a Medigap policy like Plan F without undergoing medical underwriting.

• Special Enrollment Period: If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), such as moving to a new area or losing other health coverage, you may be able to switch plans outside the regular enrollment periods.
  

Apply For AARP Plan F

Once you’re sure you’re eligible and have confirmed the switch is a good fit, it’s time to apply for AARP Plan F. Contact AARP or UnitedHealthcare to start the application process. Make sure you’re clear about your desired start date and ensure you don’t have any lapses in coverage during the transition. You’ll need to provide personal information such as your Medicare number, your current health plan details, and your preferred start date. It’s a good idea to apply for your new Plan F coverage before your current coverage ends to ensure a smooth transition. If you’re enrolling in a new plan during Open Enrollment, make sure you submit your application by the end of the enrollment period.

Coordinate The Transition

To avoid any gaps in coverage, it’s essential to coordinate the start date of your new AARP Plan F with the end date of your existing Cigna PPO plan. If you’re switching from a Cigna PPO plan, the coverage typically ends at the end of the month, and your new Plan F coverage can begin the first day of the next month. Once you’re enrolled in Plan F, make sure to cancel your previous Cigna PPO plan if it doesn’t automatically end upon enrollment in your new plan. You should also contact any providers to let them know about the change in your coverage and ensure they accept AARP Plan F.

Confirm Coverage And Benefits

After your switch is complete, take time to confirm that your new AARP Plan F is active and that your benefits are in place. Review your plan documents and check that all the coverage you’ve expected is available. If you need additional coverage, such as prescription drug benefits or dental coverage, now is the time to add them through a Part D plan or another supplemental policy.

Conclusion

Switching to AARP Plan F from a Cigna PPO plan or another Medicare Supplement plan is an excellent way to ensure comprehensive coverage for out-of-pocket Medicare costs. By carefully reviewing your current coverage, ensuring eligibility, applying during the right time, and coordinating the transition, you can switch to Plan F without losing coverage. Keep in mind that Plan F does not include prescription drug coverage, so you may need to consider adding a Part D plan or other supplemental benefits to meet all of your healthcare needs. With the right steps, you can make the switch confidently and enjoy the comprehensive protection that Plan F offers.