Medical Plans for Post-65 Retirees

Once you are retired and turn 65, active coverage discontinues. At age 65, you may enroll in University sponsored programs that “complement” traditional Medicare. These programs include Highmark’s Signature Blue and the UPMC Health Plan’s National Complementary Program. Four other programs, a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and three Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs), serve as a replacement to traditional Medicare plans. These plans are referred to by several names including Medicare Advantage Plan, Medicare Replacement Plans, Medicare Risk Plans, and Medicare Part C. 

In general, the replacement plans operate in a similar way to the active faculty and staff plans. No matter which plan you choose, you are still responsible for the Medicare Part B payment that is deducted from your Social Security check.

For greater detail on each plan, please refer to the material provided by the insurance carriers for the appropriate calendar year.

Calendar Year 2024 (current plan year)

Plan Descriptions by Carrier

Prescription Drug Plans and Cost Schedules

Each of the University-sponsored retiree medical plans includes prescription drug coverage. Retirees should not separately purchase prescription drug coverage as the University-sponsored plans meet the standards for creditable coverage required by federal regulations and guidelines.

Understanding the Types of Available Plans

Medicare Advantage Plans (HMO and PPO Plans)

These plans are known by many names, including: Medicare Advantage Programs, Medicare Replacement Programs, and Medicare Part C Programs. These programs replace traditional Medicare. However, you remain responsible for the Part B Medical Premium that is deducted from your Social Security check. For more information, visit the Medicare website.

Medicare Supplemental Plans (Complementary Plans)

Retirees who live outside of Western Pennsylvania or travel frequently typically enroll in one of the complementary plans. Medicare provides significant coverage, but it also has many gaps. Complementary plans fill in many of these gaps and coordinate coverage with Medicare. For more information, visit the Medicare website.

Prescription Drug Coverage

All of the University-provided Post-65 plans have prescription drug coverage built-in, so you do not need to purchase Medicare Part D coverage separately.