UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plans South Dakota 2025

As a South Dakota resident evaluating UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans South Dakota, you need clear and concise information. From network types to extra benefits, this article outlines what you need to know about plan features and simplifies the enrollment steps—ensuring you’re equipped to make a confident decision.

 

Key Takeaways

 

 

  • UnitedHealthcare supplements its Medicare Advantage plans with extra benefits such as possible additional coverage for dental, vision, and hearing services, enhancing overall healthcare access and wellness.

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UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage Plans in South Dakota

 

UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plans South Dakota 2025, UnitedHealthcare's Medicare Advantage Plans in South Dakota

 

UnitedHealthcare offers  Medicare Advantage plans in South Dakota, each brimming with unique features and benefits. With the rising trend of Medicare beneficiaries opting for these plans, it’s clear that many South Dakotans are finding value in the potential cost savings over Original Medicare. Here are some reasons:

  • These plans may offer additional benefits beyond what Original Medicare covers.

 

  • UnitedHealthcare has a large network of doctors and hospitals, giving members a wide range of choices for their healthcare providers.

 

  • Many of these plans include prescription drug coverage, saving members money on their medications.

 

  • UnitedHealthcare offers personalized support and resources to help members navigate their healthcare options.

 

These are just a few of the many features that set UnitedHealthcare’s AARP Medicare Advantage plans apart.

 

HMO Plans

The Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans offered by UnitedHealthcare require members to use care providers within a specific network to qualify for benefits. In South Dakota, members must access local healthcare providers designated by their plan for covered services unless in an emergency.

Well, some UnitedHealthcare HMO plans offer the convenience of seeing specialists without the need for referrals. Moreover, HMO-POS plans to provide a blend of HMO plan features with the option to use certain healthcare services outside the contracted network, albeit often at a higher cost.

So, with HMO plans, you get a tightly-knit network of healthcare providers with the potential for more direct access to specialists.

 

PPO Plans

If flexibility is what you’re after, then Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans may be your answer. UnitedHealthcare’s PPO plans allow members to receive covered services from contracted providers or seek services outside of the network, which may generally result in higher costs.

In PPO plans, you do not need a referral to see specialists, giving you greater independence in managing your healthcare. UnitedHealthcare’s PPO offerings include both local PPO plans specific to certain counties and regional PPO plans that offer consistent premiums and benefits across larger areas, potentially spanning multiple states.

So, if you value flexibility and autonomy, PPO plans might be the perfect fit for you.

 

Dual Complete Plans

To qualify for Dual Special Needs Plans, beneficiaries must be eligible for Original Medicare Part A and Part B, reside in the plan’s service area, and fulfill specific conditions such as dual eligibility.

Enrollment in Dual Special Needs Plans requires providing details from one’s Medicare card, Medicaid number if applicable, and information about their primary care provider, especially for plans with provider networks. So, if you’re eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, the Dual Complete plans could be your golden ticket to comprehensive healthcare coverage.

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Speak with a licensed insurance agent

1-844-709-9937
TTY 711

Mon-Fri : 8am-9pm ET

Coverage for Dental, Vision, and Hearing Services

 

UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plans South Dakota 2025, Coverage for Dental, Vision, and Hearing Services

 

Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional benefits not included in Original Medicare, like dental, vision, and hearing coverage. These plans provide a more comprehensive array of services, giving you access to a broader spectrum of healthcare options.

 

Dental Coverage

A healthy smile is a priceless asset, and UnitedHealthcare recognizes this. Their Medicare Advantage plans in South Dakota may include dental benefits such as:

  • routine cleanings

 

  • fluoride treatments

 

  • fillings

 

  • crowns

 

  • root canals

 

  • extractions

 

  • dentures

 

The specific dental benefits offered can differ by plan, so members need to review their plan’s details for precise dental coverage and savings.

 

Vision Coverage

Clear vision is essential for an enriched life, and UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage plans understand this. These plans may offer a yearly routine eye exam at no additional cost.

Hearing Coverage

Plan members may be able to choose from a wide selection of both OTC and brand-name prescription hearing aids. Hearing aid savings are a component of the hearing coverage, offering significant discounts compared to retail prices.

 


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How to Enroll in a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plan in South Dakota

 

UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plans South Dakota 2025, How to Enroll in a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plan in South Dakota

 

Eligibility Requirements

Before you start, it’s important to understand the eligibility requirements. Generally, individuals become eligible for Medicare coverage when they reach the age of 65 or if they have a qualifying disability or medical condition.

Eligibility for a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plan applies to individuals who are new to Medicare, turning 65, retiring, moving, or qualify for assistance due to a significant life event such as losing employer coverage.

To enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, individuals must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B, live in the service area of the plan, and must not have Medicare Supplement Insurance.

The Initial Enrollment Period is a seven-month timeframe that surrounds an individual’s 65th birthday or follows a 24-month disability waiting period, during which they can join Medicare Parts A and/or B and a Medicare Advantage plan. So, if you meet these requirements, you are all set to embark on your Medicare Advantage journey.

 

Enrollment Periods

Timing is crucial when it comes to enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan. The Annual Open Enrollment Period for Medicare Advantage runs from October 15 to December 7, during which you can enroll in or switch plans, including Part D prescription drug plans.

Apart from the Annual Open Enrollment Period, there’s also the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period extending from January 1st to March 31st. During this time, individuals can switch between Medicare Advantage plans or return to Original Medicare.

Additionally, Special Enrollment Periods are triggered by certain life events, such as loss of coverage or relocation, and the dates for these can vary depending on your circumstances.

 

Steps to Enroll

Once you’ve determined your eligibility and the enrollment period, the next step is actually to enroll. You can do this in three ways:

  • Online: Enroll with ease by simply typing in your zip code in the designated field on this page and selecting the plan that best suits your needs.

 

  • Over the phone: Speak with a knowledgeable representative who will assist you in selecting the plan that aligns with your health needs. Dial 1-844-709-9937 (TTY 711) Monday through Friday, from 8 AM to 9 PM EST.

 

During the enrollment process, you’ll need to provide information from your Medicare card, such as your Medicare ID and the start dates for Original Medicare Parts A and B. So, ensure you have all your essential documents handy.

 

Comparing UnitedHealthcare Plans with Original Medicare

 

UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plans South Dakota 2025, Comparing UnitedHealthcare Plans with Original Medicare

 

By now, you might be wondering how UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans stack up against Original Medicare. Well, while Original Medicare allows beneficiaries to visit any hospital or provider in the U.S. that accepts Medicare, UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage plans typically have a network of providers.

 

Coverage Differences

In terms of coverage, UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage plans frequently offer an integrated Part D prescription drug benefit not inherently provided by Original Medicare.

Original Medicare generally requires the purchase of an additional Part D plan for prescription drug coverage, contrasting with Medicare Advantage, which commonly includes this benefit.

Moreover, UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage plans typically encompass inpatient and outpatient services, preventive care, and most prescription drugs under one plan, offering a broader range of coverage than Original Medicare.

 

Summary

In essence, UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage plans in South Dakota offer an impressive array of benefits and features that make them a compelling choice over Original Medicare.

With possible additional coverage for dental, vision, and hearing services and potential cost savings, these plans truly offer a comprehensive healthcare solution.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can I switch from Original Medicare to a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plan?

Yes, you can switch from Original Medicare to a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage Plan during designated enrollment periods. This includes the Annual Enrollment Period from October 15 to December 7, or during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 to March 31.

Special Enrollment Periods may also be available based on certain qualifying events such as moving or losing current coverage.

 

Is AARP Medicare Advantage the same as UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage?

Yes, AARP Medicare Advantage plans are insured by UnitedHealthcare, allowing UnitedHealthcare to sell AARP-branded Medicare products. UnitedHealthcare is the largest Medicare Advantage provider in the country.

 

What are the types of Medicare Advantage plans offered by UnitedHealthcare in South Dakota?

UnitedHealthcare offers HMO, PPO, and Dual Complete Medicare Advantage plans in South Dakota, providing a range of options for beneficiaries.

 

Compare Medicare Plans

Find a plan to fit your needs

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Speak with a licensed insurance agent

1-844-709-9937
TTY 711

Mon-Fri : 8am-9pm ET