Selecting the right Medicare plan is crucial for seniors aiming to balance comprehensive coverage with affordability. Humana and Anthem Blue Cross are two prominent providers offering a range of Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans. This guide provides an in-depth comparison to assist in making an informed decision.
Company Overview
Humana
- Founded: 1961
- Headquarters: Louisville, Kentucky
- Membership: Approximately 14 million members
- Focus: Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans
- Notable Strengths: Extensive Medicare Advantage offerings, wellness programs
Anthem Blue Cross
- Founded: 2004 (as Anthem, Inc.)
- Headquarters: Indianapolis, Indiana
- Membership: Over 14 million members
- Focus: Broad range of health insurance products, including Medicare plans
- Notable Strengths: Wide provider network, comprehensive plan options
Medicare Advantage Plans
Humana
- Plan Types: HMO, PPO, PFFS, Special Needs Plans (SNPs)
- Coverage: Available in all 50 states
- Additional Benefits: Dental, vision, hearing, fitness programs (e.g., SilverSneakers), meal delivery, 24/7 nurse hotline
- Prescription Drug Coverage: Most plans include Part D coverage
- Star Ratings: In 2024, 94% of members were in plans rated 4 stars or higher. However, projections for 2025 indicate a decline, with only 25% expected to remain in 4-star or higher plans due to CMS rating adjustments citeturn0news21
Anthem Blue Cross
- Plan Types: HMO, PPO, SNPs
- Coverage: Available in 14 states
- Additional Benefits: Dental, vision, hearing, fitness programs (e.g., SilverSneakers), over-the-counter allowances
- Prescription Drug Coverage: Many plans include Part D coverage
- Star Ratings: Varies by plan and region; generally competitive
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans
Humana
- Plans Offered: A, B, C, F, G, K, L, N
- Availability: 48 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico
- Additional Benefits: SilverSneakers, vision and hearing discounts, 24/7 nurse hotline
- Prescription Drug Coverage: Requires separate Part D plan
Anthem Blue Cross
- Plans Offered: A, F, G, N
- Availability: Varies by state
- Additional Benefits: SilverSneakers, ScriptSave/WellRx prescription savings, SpecialOffers discounts on wellness products
- Prescription Drug Coverage: Requires separate Part D plan
Cost Considerations
- Premiums: Both providers offer competitive premiums, with variations based on plan type, location, and individual factors.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: Humana’s Medicare Advantage plans have experienced increases in maximum out-of-pocket costs for 2025, averaging $5,929 for in-network care citeturn0news20. Anthem’s costs vary by plan and region.
- Additional Costs: Both providers may offer plans with $0 premiums, but it’s essential to consider copayments, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses.
Customer Satisfaction and Support
- Humana: Offers robust customer support with 24/7 nurse hotline and user-friendly digital tools. However, the recent decline in star ratings may impact customer perceptions.
- Anthem Blue Cross: Provides comprehensive customer service, though experiences may vary by region due to the structure of Blue Cross Blue Shield affiliates.
Both Humana and Anthem Blue Cross offer a range of Medicare plans suitable for senior citizens. Humana stands out for its nationwide availability and extensive additional benefits, while Anthem Blue Cross offers a broad provider network and competitive plan options. When choosing between the two, consider factors such as plan availability in your area, specific healthcare needs, preferred providers, and budget constraints