How to Get AARP Group Health Insurance

By Theresa Curry

  • Overview

    The AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) is familiar to most people as a lobbying group for the interests of those older than 50. The AARP also has a strong educational and support program, especially when it comes to matters of health. As employer-paid insurance becomes less common and as the aging senior population grows, there are a significant number of people who must pay out of pocket for their health insurance. Often, the rates are staggering. The AARP has formed its own "group," essentially offering the same types of coverage as an employer might. Because the AARP can bargain with insurance companies, your rate will not be affected by previous health conditions. The risk is spread out among all payees, just as it might be with an employer. These steps will help you get group health insurance through AARP.

    • Step 1

      Go to the health care page on AARP's website (see Resources). This page explains the types of insurance available to individuals and their dependents and explains the different kinds of plans available. It explores all kinds of insurance options, not just the AARP group health insurance plan. It is a valuable guide to finding the best option for you and your dependents. The guidelines given there provide information for those who are between 50 and 64 years old. If you are 65 or older, you are eligible for Medicare. Some options for you are also listed on the AARP website.

    • Step 2

      Find the AARP health care insurance that is best for you. On the "Healthcare Products" page, you'll find four different products, each with varying degrees of coverage and with different deductibles and copays. "Deductible" means the amount you will pay for hospital or in-patient care before the insurance assumes responsibility. "Copay" means the amount you pay for the cost of each doctor's visit. Presently, the only option available is the AARP "Essential Premier Health Insurance" from the Aetna Insurance Company. This is a plan, much like those offered by employers, that covers out-of-hospital health care as well as hospital stays.

    • Step 3

      Find out if the health insurance is available in your state. Go to the "Find out if you are eligible" link on the webpage (see Resources). AARP group insurance coverage is not available in all states and for all ages. You will only be asked to give your age, state and zip code to find if coverage is available for you.

    • Step 4

      Get a quote. Once you find out that AARP group health insurance is available in your state, you will be directed to a page that quotes several insurance options and also gives you the opportunity to apply for AARP group health insurance. Unfortunately, AARP group health insurance is not yet offered in all states.

    • Step 5

      Call1-866-844-0888 to inquire about AARP Group Health Insurance if you don't want to use a computer or don't have regular access to one.
    • Skill: Moderately Challenging
    • Tip: Even if you have another plan, or decide not to go with the AARP group health insurance plan, you can get discounts on vision and dental services, as well as medical equipment and prescriptions, by joining AARP.
    • Tip: The AARP also offers long-term care insurance for you and your spouse.
    • Warning:
    • Remember that AARP is not the insurer. The organization is merely the means to collect a "group" of people who have better collective bargaining power with an insurance company.
    • You will have to join AARP in order to be covered by the AARP group health insurance.

    Trending Now

    © Demand Media 2011