For seniors enrolled in Original Medicare, Medigap plans help pay for things like copays, deductibles and coinsurance. However, some insurers offering Medicare Supplement coverage have developed notoriously bad reputations for poor customer service and claims processing. This article will examine the 5 worst Worst Medicare Supplement Companies based on consumer complaints and reviews.
UnitedHealthcare
With over 10,000 complaints, UnitedHealthcare earns the bottom spot for worst Medigap insurer. Their Medicare Supplement plans consistently receive low ratings across measures of customer service, claims processing accuracy, and timely payments.
Key Complaints:
- Long delays getting claims approved and paid
- Repeatedly denying valid claims
- Unhelpful, incompetent customer service
Medicare.gov Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Humana
Humana has racked up over 9,000 complaints about their Medicare Supplement plans. Policyholders report ineffective customer service, claim denials for no cause, and months-long payment delays.
Key Complaints:
- Denying claims without explanation
- Customer service unresponsive
- As much as 90+ day delays for claim reimbursement
Medicare.gov Rating: 3.4 out of 5 stars
Aetna
With a Medicare.gov rating of just 3.3 stars, Aetna is the 3rd worst Medicare Supplement insurance provider. Their 8,000+ complaints cite lack of responsiveness, erroneous claim rejections, and delayed payments.
Key Complaints:
- Cutting customer service staffing
- Regular errors and denials of claims
- 3+ month delays in payments
Medicare.gov Rating: 3.3 out of 5 stars
Cigna
Cigna has around 7,000 Medicare Supplement complaints on record. Customers describe unhelpful service reps, wrongful claim denials, and reimbursement delays up to 6 months. Their Medicare.gov rating is 3.2 out of 5 stars.
Key Complaints:
- Customer service unknowledgeable about policies
- Frequent wrongful denial of claims
- 4-6 month delays in claims reimbursement
Medicare.gov Rating: 3.2 out of 5 stars
WellCare
Rounding out the worst Medicare Supplement providers is WellCare with 6,000+ complaints. Their dismal 3.1 star Medicare.gov rating results from poor claims processing, unresponsive customer service, and slow payments.
Key Complaints:
- Regular errors in claims processing
- Customer service rarely resolves issues
- 3+ month delays in reimbursement
Medicare.gov Rating: 3.1 out of 5 stars
Tips for Choosing a Medicare Supplement Company
- Compare plans from multiple companies using Medicare.gov’s Plan Finder.
- Read customer reviews on Medicare.gov and other sites like Yelp.
- Ask about customer service responsiveness and complaint resolution processes.
- Consult with your doctor to understand differences between plans.
In summary, do your research to avoid these bottom-rated Medicare Supplement providers. Compare plans and consult an independent insurance broker to find the best value Medigap policy for your needs.
