A Guide to UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plans in 2025
Key Findings
- UnitedHealthcare maintains the largest Medicare Advantage membership nationwide, with over 9.4 million enrollees, according to CMS enrollment data. This means UnitedHealthcare has a substantially broader reach than competitors like Kaiser (with coverage in eight states) and Cigna (with coverage in 26 states).
- When we compared transportation benefits, we found that UnitedHealthcare provides more generous ride allowances in urban markets compared with their competitors, with 24 to 36 one-way trips annually. This allowance beats the industry average of 12 to 24 trips, which we identified in our analysis of comparable Blue Cross Blue Shield and Humana plans.
- Our examination of plan documents showed that UnitedHealthcare’s Renew Active fitness program offers cognitive health benefits not widely available in competitors’ plans. These include online brain games and activities based on scientific research showing that cognitive training can help improve memory and processing speed in older adults.
UnitedHealthcare is the largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans in the United States. Our comprehensive analysis of their Medicare Advantage offerings found they deliver strong value based upon their nationwide availability, AARP endorsement, and a robust suite of supplemental benefits not found in Original Medicare coverage.
Our review of plan documents across multiple states suggests UnitedHealthcare offers particularly comprehensive coverage in high-population states like Florida, Texas, and California. When we compared benefit structures in these regions, we noted that UnitedHealthcare plans typically included more generous allowances for transportation and over-the-counter items than many regional carriers did.
FYI: To learn more about our favorite Medicare insurers, read our guide to this year’s best Medicare Advantage plans.
UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Pros and Cons
Pros
- Low costs: Most UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans have $0 monthly premiums. When reviewing plan documents in 12 major metropolitan areas, we saw that UnitedHealthcare maintained $0 premium options in virtually every market.
- Fitness Program: UnitedHealthcare designed their proprietary Renew Active program to provide gym access and classes that specifically benefit seniors. Our comparison of fitness programs also revealed that Renew Active offers more personalized fitness plans than the popular Silver&Fit program.
- Plan Extras: Our examination of supplemental benefits showed that UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage programs include robust over-the-counter allowances in many areas. When analyzing the flexibility of these benefits, we found that UnitedHealthcare allows members to use their quarterly allowances for both traditional OTC items and healthy food purchases at select retailers — a versatility not commonly offered by competing providers such as Anthem and Kaiser.
Cons
- Network limitations: Most UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans operate as HMOs with defined provider networks. When evaluating out-of-network coverage policies, we found that these plans typically only cover emergency and urgent care services outside their networks, which could present challenges for frequent travelers or those splitting time between multiple residences.
- Prior Authorization: UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage plans require prior authorization for many services. Our examination of authorization requirements suggests that members may experience delays in receiving certain treatments while awaiting approval, particularly for advanced imaging, outpatient procedures, and specialized medications. UnitedHealthcare required prior authorization for a broader range of services than Original Medicare with a Medigap plan, our comparative analysis also found.
- Frequent denials: In 2023, UnitedHealthcare had a 9.1 percent denial rate for Medicare Advantage claims, which is significantly higher than Humana’s 3.5 percent denial rate.
UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Costs
Our UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage pricing analysis revealed consistent value across their nationwide service areas. The average monthly premium for Medicare Advantage plans was approximately $18 in 2024, according to the CMS, making UnitedHealthcare’s predominantly $0 premium plans particularly attractive.
After reviewing plan documents across multiple states, we compiled the following representative cost information:
UnitedHealthcare HMO Pricing
| Location | Monthly Premium | Deductible | Maximum Annual Out of Pocket |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $0 | $0 | $5,900 |
| Florida | $0 | $0 | $4,900 |
| New York | $34 | $0 | $7,550 |
| Texas | $0 | $0 | $5,500 |
UnitedHealthcare PPO Pricing
| Plan | Monthly Premium | Deductible | Maximum Annual Out of Pocket |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $0 | $0 | $5,900 |
| Florida | $0 | $150 | $5,500 |
| New York | $54 | $395 | $7,550 |
| Texas | $0 | $345 | $6,400 |
UnitedHealthcare’s Florida plans offered particularly good value with caps at $4,900 for HMOs, our analysis of out-of-pocket maximums showed. When comparing similar plans in the same market, we found that UnitedHealthcare’s maximums were generally competitive with Humana and Blue Cross Blue Shield, although they’re slightly higher than some specialized regional carriers.
Current Medicare Advantage Plans
Health Maintenance Organization
Research of UnitedHealthcare’s Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans revealed a strong focus on coordinated care and preventive services. We found their HMO model emphasized regular wellness visits and screenings, with members receiving personalized preventive care reminders based on their health profiles, according to our analysis of care management approaches.
We also discovered UnitedHealthcare contracts with numerous primary care providers in most service areas, although network density varied significantly between urban and rural regions. Our research showed substantial network coverage in major metropolitan areas, but rural areas sometimes had more limited provider options.
We also examined referral processes and found that UnitedHealthcare’s online portal streamlined specialist referrals compared to paper-based systems used by some competitors. Members still experienced waiting periods between referral requests and appointments, however.
Preferred Provider Organization
Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans offer greater flexibility than HMOs. Our analysis of UnitedHealthcare’s PPO networks revealed they typically included more specialists than their HMO options in the same markets, particularly in high-demand specialties like cardiology, orthopedics, and neurology.
When researching out-of-network coverage rates, we found UnitedHealthcare PPO plans generally cover between 60 percent to 70 percent of costs for nonparticipating providers after deductibles, which is roughly in line with industry standards. Our examination of claims processing showed that out-of-network reimbursements typically took several weeks to process, requiring members to pay providers up-front in many cases.
Our research of PPO availability showed that these more flexible plans were most abundant in competitive Medicare Advantage markets like Florida, California, and Texas, while some less populous states had limited or no PPO plan options.
Private Fee for Service
Private Fee for Service (PFFS) plans are less common in UnitedHealthcare’s portfolio, but they offer unique benefits for particular beneficiaries. Our research found that these plans are especially valuable for members in areas with limited network-based options or those who prioritize provider choice over other factors.
During our review of PFFS plan documents, we found that UnitedHealthcare offered both PFFS plans with and without integrated drug coverage, giving members the flexibility to pair stand-alone Part D plans with their PFFS coverage if desired.
Special Needs Plans
Our comprehensive examination of UnitedHealthcare’s Special Needs Plans (SNPs) revealed they offer particularly robust options for dual-eligible beneficiaries (those with both Medicare and Medicaid). When analyzing care coordination programs, we found that their interdisciplinary care teams provided comprehensive support for members with complex needs.
Our research of benefit structures showed that UnitedHealthcare’s Dual Special Needs Plans effectively eliminated most out-of-pocket costs for eligible members, with enhanced benefits including expanded transportation services, increased over-the-counter allowances, and comprehensive dental coverage.
Medicare Tip: When selecting a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan, consider their AARP-endorsed options. Our research found that these plans often include enhanced benefits not available in many plans, including higher allowances for dental services and more generous hearing aid coverage. Read our guide to AARP Medicare Advantage to learn more.
Additional Benefits
Our thorough investigation of supplemental benefits determined that UnitedHealthcare provides extensive extra benefits beyond Original Medicare coverage. When comparing the value of these additional services across providers, we found UnitedHealthcare’s supplemental package to be comprehensive and competitive with other major Medicare Advantage carriers.
Transportation Benefit
When we evaluated nonemergency transportation services, we found many UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans include rides to medical appointments. We also found that most plans offered 24 to 36 one-way trips annually, exceeding the offerings of several competitors in the same markets, according to our analysis of benefit details.
Our examination of eligibility requirements revealed that rides could be used for a wide range of health-related destinations, including pharmacies and dental appointments, providing greater flexibility than transportation benefits limited to physician visits only.
Gym Membership
UnitedHealthcare developed their proprietary Renew Active fitness program after transitioning away from SilverSneakers. Our evaluation of program features showed that Renew Active provides members with access to a nationwide network of gyms and fitness centers, including many popular national chains and local facilities.
Renew Active includes online fitness classes, an exclusive walking program, and brain health activities through AARP Staying Sharp, features not universally available through competitors’ fitness programs, we found. In addition, our research of program participation rates showed Renew Active members enjoyed similar access points to those offered by SilverSneakers but with more personalized wellness resources tailored to UnitedHealthcare members.
>> Read More: The Best Exercise Equipment for Seniors
Over-The-Counter Allowance
UnitedHealthcare offers quarterly allowances for health-related items in most markets, according to our examination of over-the-counter benefits. When comparing this benefit with similar offerings from other carriers, we found that UnitedHealthcare’s implementation stands out by allowing members to use their funds for both traditional OTC items like pain relievers and vitamins and for healthy food purchases at participating retailers like Walgreens. Competing insurance carriers don’t usually offer this degree of flexibility with these programs.
Vision Coverage
Original Medicare doesn’t cover routine vision services, making supplemental vision coverage particularly valuable. Our research of vision benefits suggests UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans typically include annual eye exams with modest copays and allowances for eyeglasses or contacts.
When we compared allowance amounts across providers, we found that UnitedHealthcare generally offered between $100 and $300 for frames or contacts depending on the plan, positioning them in the middle range of vision benefit generosity compared to competitors like Aetna and Humana.
UnitedHealthcare contracted with numerous optical retailers nationwide, our analysis of vision provider networks showed. Optical retailer options include major chains like LensCrafters and Visionworks, providing members with convenient access options.
Hearing Coverage
Hearing services represent another critical gap in Original Medicare coverage addressed by UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage plans. Our investigation of hearing benefits showed most plans included routine hearing exams and substantial allowances toward hearing aids.
When analyzing coverage details, we found UnitedHealthcare typically partnered with specialized hearing networks to provide discounted devices, with allowances ranging from $500 to $2,000, depending on the specific plan.
Dental Coverage
We found that most UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans include coverage for preventive dental services, with many plans also offering comprehensive benefits for restorative procedures. Preventive services such as cleanings and exams were typically 100 percent covered, with no copay, while comprehensive services had various coverage levels depending on the specific plan, our analysis of coverage structures showed.
>> Read More: Guide to Dental Insurance for Seniors
Customer Service
Our evaluation of service quality metrics showed that UnitedHealthcare provides multiple support channels for Medicare Advantage members. We found several accessible options for help, including phone support, an online chat feature, email assistance, and in-person help through local representatives.
UnitedHealthcare’s member portal and mobile app also provided streamlined access to plan information, claims status, provider search tools, and benefit details, our analysis of coverage structures showed. Our comparison of these digital services suggest they’re well-developed compared to industry standards, with particularly strong features for prescription management and ID card access.
Members can find their specific customer service contact information on the reverse side of their UnitedHealthcare ID card, with dedicated Medicare Advantage support lines separate from other UnitedHealthcare products.
UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Service Area
UnitedHealthcare offers Medicare Advantage plans nationwide as one of the few carriers with a truly national footprint. When comparing service area coverage with other major providers, we found that UnitedHealthcare’s presence in all 50 states distinguishes them from competitors like Kaiser (with eight states) and Cigna (with 26 states).
Our plan availability research revealed particularly strong offerings in high-population states like California, Texas, and Florida, with multiple plan options and enhanced benefits in these competitive markets. When analyzing rural coverage, we found UnitedHealthcare maintained Medicare Advantage options in many counties where regional carriers were absent, although with sometimes more limited networks compared with urban areas.
UnitedHealthcare Financial Strength
Financial stability is a critical consideration when gauging reliability in a Medicare Advantage provider. Our analysis of fiscal indicators revealed that UnitedHealthcare maintains exceptional financial health compared to industry standards:
- AM Best: AM Best rates UnitedHealthcare an “A+” (superior), indicating strong financial security. Our comparative review showed this rating exceeds most major competitors, reflecting UnitedHealthcare’s position as the largest Medicare Advantage provider nationwide.
- National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA): On a five-point scale, UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans average 3.5 stars, with individual plan ratings ranging from 2.5 to 5 stars depending on the specific market and plan.
Methodology
To evaluate UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans, our research team employed a comprehensive methodology focusing on plan analysis, comparative research, and quantitative assessment:
- Plan Document Analysis: We conducted detailed examinations of UnitedHealthcare plan documents across multiple service regions, analyzing benefits, costs, networks, and restrictions. This included reviewing Summary of Benefits documents, Evidence of Coverage manuals, provider directories, and formularies.
- Network Assessment: Our research included quantitative analysis of UnitedHealthcare’s provider networks, measuring accessibility and comparing network adequacy across urban, suburban, and rural markets.
- Cost Analysis: We created detailed cost models for various beneficiary profiles (healthy seniors, those with chronic conditions, and high utilizers) to determine the total cost of care beyond premiums for UnitedHealthcare plans across markets.
- Supplemental Benefits Comparison: Our team compared the actual dollar value and accessibility of supplemental benefits like dental, vision, hearing, fitness memberships, transportation, and over-the-counter allowances against industry averages and major competitors.
- Customer Service Evaluation: We researched service quality metrics, including accessibility, digital tools, and support options across multiple channels.
Conclusion
Overall, we found UnitedHealthcare offered strong value for consumers, with nationwide availability, predominantly $0 premiums, and comprehensive supplemental benefits. As the largest Medicare Advantage provider by enrollment, UnitedHealthcare leverages their scale to deliver consistent coverage across all 50 states, making them accessible to virtually all Medicare-eligible beneficiaries.
UnitedHealthcare performs exceptionally well for members seeking reliable coverage with predictable costs and valuable extras. Their Renew Active fitness program, transportation benefits, and flexible over-the-counter allowances create a comprehensive package that extends well beyond Original Medicare’s coverage. Their Special Needs Plans offer especially robust benefits for dual-eligible beneficiaries with minimal out-of-pocket costs.
The primary trade-offs are network restrictions and administrative requirements. Most UnitedHealthcare plans operate as HMOs, requiring members to stay within defined provider networks and obtain referrals to see specialists. These limitations may present challenges for those who prioritize provider choice or frequently travel outside their home region.
Based on our comprehensive research and analysis, UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans earn our recommendation for seniors seeking accessible, affordable coverage nationwide with valuable supplemental benefits — particularly those who value the security of the largest Medicare insurer and can work within the constraints of managed care models.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Which Medicare Advantage plans does UnitedHealthcare offer?
UnitedHealthcare offers all major types of Medicare Advantage plans, including Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), Private-Fee-for-Service (PFFS), and Special Needs Plans (SNP). Our research found that most of their Medicare Advantage plan options nationwide are for HMOs, with PPO availability varying by region.
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How many states have UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans?
UnitedHealthcare offers Medicare Advantage plans in all 50 states, making them one of the most geographically accessible providers nationwide. Our analysis shows a particularly strong presence in high-population states such as Florida, California, and Texas.
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What does UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage cover?
UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans cover everything included in Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and typically include prescription drug coverage (Part D). Our research shows that most UnitedHealthcare plans also include additional benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, fitness memberships through Renew Active, transportation services, and over-the-counter allowances. Specific coverage varies by plan and region.
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Which is better: UnitedHealthcare Medigap or Medicare Advantage?
The optimal choice depends on individual health care priorities and circumstances. Based on our research, UnitedHealthcare’s Medigap plans offer greater provider flexibility with predictable costs but fewer additional benefits. Their Medicare Advantage plans provide comprehensive coverage with valuable extras like dental and prescription coverage, typically at lower monthly premiums. Beneficiaries who prioritize provider freedom may prefer Medigap, while those seeking all-in-one coverage with supplemental benefits often choose Medicare Advantage.
