A Snowbird's Guide to Choosing a Medicare Plan

By Brian Eck, Published October 15, 2022

There are a lot of things to consider when shopping for a Medicare Advantage plan, but for members who head south for the winter, there’s an extra layer of complexity. UCare has expanded its network to ensure total coverage wherever the winter takes you, and has tips and tricks to make health care easier when you travel.

As the leaves change color and colder air blows into Minnesota, an annual migration begins: Minnesota retirees pack up and head to warmer climates for extended vacations that may last for months.

As people live longer, healthier lives, these trips are often filled with activity and adventure that would have been unusual for retirees of years past. But living more fully may also mean needing medical care — which can be stressful to find while traveling, especially for those unsure if their Medicare coverage is accepted.

For those who have UCare Medicare Advantage plans, there’s good news: We are now partnering with the national MultiPlan Network, which has a strong presence in the Sun Belt states, from Arizona to Florida. Meaning any visit to providers in the MultiPlan Network is covered exactly as it would be at home — no extra fees, no higher copays.

You’ll have easy access to in-network care like you get in Minnesota with UCare. While many providers cover Medicare, some charge different copays and fees. And by law, some physicians who accept Medicare but don’t participate in Medicare assignment can charge you up to 15% above what Medicare covers, which comes out of your pocket. Be sure to ask about what charges you’ll face up front if you are out-of-network.

Another benefit: You can schedule surgeries or care in-network at partner facilities and recuperate in a more enjoyable climate. Preventive care is even more important. No problem — you can schedule checkups and follow-up care as if you were at home with any provider in the extended network, making it easier to keep up.

Here's my top advice for members who are heading elsewhere for an extended (and even not-so-extended) time:

1. Make a list of all your medications and conditions and tuck it into your wallet or purse. Travel means that you're likely around strangers, and having a quick reference in an emergency is helpful.
2. Pack all of your medications and items essential to your care.
3. Research reputable providers in your vacation area who are covered by your plan ahead of time. (You can search the Find a Provider tool on ucare.org starting next year.)
4. Bring your UCare card with you and keep it safe.
5. Look up health clubs that may be covered by your Medicare plan fitness benefit.
6. If traveling internationally or on a cruise ship, consider travel insurance, which will cover health-related expenses that fall outside normal reimbursement (like flights home or medevac services). Or, if you have a premium credit card, check if membership includes travel insurance.

For many retirees, the opportunity to travel is one of the big benefits of retirement and something they live for and love to do. I like to think that UCare plays a part in the enjoyment people find in travel whenever we can make the experience more worry-free. So pack your bags with confidence knowing your Medicare plan IS something you can take with you!

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