1. Original Medicare + Medigap (Best for Nationwide Coverage)
For snowbirds, Original Medicare + a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan is one of the best options because it offers nationwide provider access.
Why It’s a Good Choice for Snowbirds
✔ No provider network restrictions – See any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare.
✔ Covers out-of-state medical care – No need to worry about changing coverage when traveling.
✔ Low out-of-pocket costs – Medigap helps cover copays, deductibles, and other expenses.
Best Medigap Plans for Snowbirds
- Plan G – Covers almost everything except the Part B deductible ($240 in 2025).
- Plan N – Lower premiums than Plan G but requires small copays for some services.
- Plan F (only available to those eligible before 2020) – Covers all out-of-pocket costs.
💡 Tip: Medigap plans don’t include prescription drug coverage, so you’ll need a separate Part D plan that works in multiple states.
2. Medicare Advantage PPO Plans (For Snowbirds Who Want Extra Benefits)
If you prefer Medicare Advantage, look for a PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plan with nationwide provider access.
Why a PPO Plan May Work for Snowbirds
✔ Out-of-network coverage – Unlike HMOs, PPOs allow some out-of-state care.
✔ Extra benefits – Many Medicare Advantage plans include dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
✔ Lower premiums than Medigap – Some plans have $0 monthly premiums.
Things to Watch Out For
❌ Not all PPOs allow out-of-state non-emergency care – Always check before enrolling.
❌ Higher out-of-pocket costs than Medigap – You’ll pay more for services outside the network.
❌ Network restrictions – Some PPOs only work with specific doctors and hospitals.
💡 Tip: If choosing Medicare Advantage, call the plan provider to confirm coverage in both states before enrolling.
3. Medicare Part D Plans for Snowbirds (Prescription Drug Coverage)
Since Medigap doesn’t cover prescriptions, snowbirds should choose a Medicare Part D plan that works in multiple states.
What to Look for in a Part D Plan
✔ A nationwide pharmacy network (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, etc.).
✔ Coverage for the medications you take (check the formulary).
✔ Reasonable copays and deductibles.
💡 Tip: Use Medicare’s Plan Finder (Medicare.gov) to compare Part D plans that cover your prescriptions in both locations.
How to Choose the Right Medicare Plan as a Snowbird
If you live in two different states, follow these steps to find the best Medicare plan:
Step 1: Check Your Doctor & Hospital Coverage
- If you have Original Medicare + Medigap, you can see any doctor nationwide.
- If you choose Medicare Advantage, confirm that your doctors are in-network in both states.
Step 2: Consider Prescription Drug Access
- If you have Medigap, you’ll need Part D coverage that works in both locations.
- If you have Medicare Advantage, make sure your plan includes prescription coverage.
Step 3: Compare Costs
- Medigap plans have higher monthly premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs.
- Medicare Advantage plans have lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket expenses.
Step 4: Ensure Emergency Coverage
- Original Medicare covers emergencies anywhere in the U.S.
- Medicare Advantage covers emergencies anywhere in the U.S.—check your plan’s details.
💡 Tip: Snowbirds who travel internationally may want Medigap Plans G or F, which offer limited emergency coverage abroad.
Final Thoughts: The Best Medicare Plan for Your Snowbird Lifestyle
If you’re a retiree who splits time between two states, choosing the right Medicare plan is essential to avoiding coverage gaps and unexpected costs.
Best Choices for Snowbirds in 2025
✔ Best for Nationwide Access: Original Medicare + Medigap (Plan G or N) + Part D
✔ Best for Extra Benefits: Medicare Advantage PPO with out-of-state coverage
✔ Best for Cost Savings: Medicare Advantage (if it covers both locations)
📢 Need Help Finding the Right Medicare Plan? Contact Paulbinsurance.com for expert, no-cost Medicare advice tailored to your snowbird lifestyle!
