If you’re planning a trip outside of Arkansas, you might be wondering: “Will my Medicare plan cover me when I travel out of state?”
It’s a great question — and one that Rhonda Young, Medicare Benefit Specialist at Sharp Family Insurance in Hot Springs, AR, hears all the time. The answer depends on the type of Medicare plan you have.
Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)
If you have a Medicare Supplement plan (also known as Medigap) — such as Plan G, Plan F, or Plan N — you’re in good shape for travel.
As long as the doctor or hospital accepts Medicare, you’ll be covered anywhere in the United States. You can think of it like this: if Medicare approves the service, your supplement will follow right along.
That means you can visit family in Texas, take a road trip to Florida, or spend the summer in another state without worrying about your healthcare coverage.
Medicare Advantage Plans (HMO vs PPO)
Things work a little differently if you have a Medicare Advantage plan.
HMO Plans
If your plan is an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), you’ll generally need to stay within your plan’s provider network — which is often local or regional.
You can always get emergency care anywhere, but for non-emergency visits, surgeries, or follow-up care, you’ll want to double-check your network before traveling. Your insurance agent can help you with that.
PPO Plans
If you have a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), your network is much broader. You’ll still save money by using in-network providers, but you typically have out-of-network benefits if you need care while you’re away from home.
For clients who spend part of the year in another state (like many Arkansans who winter in Texas or Florida), a PPO often provides the flexibility they need.
Emergency Care on Any Medicare Plan
No matter what plan you have — HMO, PPO, or Supplement — emergency care is always covered anywhere in the U.S.
So if you’re traveling and need to visit the ER, you’re protected.
Traveling Often? Talk to a Local Medicare Expert
If you travel frequently or live part-time in another state, it’s worth reviewing your Medicare coverage. Rhonda can help you compare options and find the right balance of cost and flexibility.
“I always recommend that clients who travel a lot consider a PPO plan for more freedom,” says Rhonda. “But everyone’s situation is different — that’s what I’m here for.”
Talk to Rhonda Young at Sharp Family Insurance
If you have questions about Medicare coverage while traveling, or want a local Medicare expert in Hot Springs, Arkansas to review your plan options, reach out today! You can learn more about how to work with us and why we’re passionate about Medicare here.
Call: (501) 547-9474
Serving: Hot Springs, Hot Springs Village, and all of Central Arkansas