You can replace Original Medicare with a Medicare Advantage plan (also known as a Medicare Part C plan) that is designed especially for the Health Options Program. Medicare Advantage plans are available through Highmark, Aetna, Independence Blue Cross, Capital Blue Cross, and UPMC.
Prescription drug coverage is included with all Medicare Advantage plans.
Comparable coverage for your spouse
If you and your spouse are both PSERS retirees, you may individually enroll in any option. If your spouse is NOT a PSERS retiree and is Medicare-eligible, he or she must enroll in the same plan that you enroll in. If your spouse is not eligible for Medicare, he or she must enroll in the same type of plan that you enroll in (the HOP Pre-65 Medical Plan if you enroll in the HOP or Value Medical Plan, or a managed care plan offered by the same insurance company if you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan).
For your consideration: If your spouse will have a Qualifying Event in the next year and is also considering enrolling, but not at the same time you will enroll, you may want to consider electing an option now that is good for both of you. Otherwise, your next opportunity to change options will be next fall during the Option Selection Period.
Highmark
Watch this video on the Highmark plans to learn about the medical coverage available to you through the Health Options Program.
Aetna
Watch this video on the Aetna plans to learn about the medical coverage available to you through the Health Options Program.
Grab and go: Virtual learning center
Independence Blue Cross
Watch this video on the Independence Blue Cross plans to learn about the medical coverage available to you through the Health Options Program.
Note: Independence Blue Cross is only available in Southeast Pennsylvania.
Grab and go: Virtual learning center
Capital Blue Cross
Watch this video on the Capital Blue Cross plans to learn about the medical coverage available to you through the Health Options Program.
UPMC
Review this presentation on the UPMC plans to learn about the medical coverage available to you through the Health Options Program.
