United Healthcare

Then I wonder why it is the LARGEST Medicare plan insurer - for MA plans as well as Medigap or Medicare Supplemental plans?

United Health Care, AARP 08/06/2024 - News Release - UnitedHealthcare, AARP Update Relationship Focused on Improving Older Americans' Access to High-Quality, Affordable Health Care 

from the link~ 

“Through the updated agreement, UnitedHealthcare will continue to offer for the foreseeable future AARP-branded Medicare-related offerings, including Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D and supplemental benefits, while assuming fiduciary responsibilities related to supplemental products. The extended agreement advances considerations for the enduring co-branding relationship, furthering both organizations’ core mission of serving older Americans.”

Their relationship of this insurance company paying for the use of the AARP brand name as royalties for marketing purposes has gone on for over 25 years - now it has been extended for longer just under a slightly different royalty payment arrangement for the supplemental plans.

Each beneficiary or AARP member will have to determine for themselves what benefit they might get from this arrangement.  Evidently many do since United Healthcare is THE BIGGEST insurer for Medicare Advantage Plans AND Medicare Supplemental plans also.  

I’ve wondered the same thing. My guess is it comes down to business partnerships and money more than values. AARP gets royalties from endorsing plans, and UnitedHealthcare gets access to their member base. Doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best option for everyone, so it’s always worth comparing plans carefully