Soon you can buy Medicare Advantage plans at Costco. What you need to know.

Costco will soon offer Medicare Advantage plans to its members, but consumers may wonder if they will receive warehouse club pricing. These plans come with various benefits, costs, and network considerations that can make shopping for them challenging. While buying from a trusted retailer like Costco might seem appealing, shoppers should carefully consider several factors before enrolling.

Costco's partnership with SCAN Group, a not-for-profit plan provider, is currently pending regulatory approval and will initially be limited to select markets in just a few states. Costco plans are expected to include Medicare Advantage and Medicare supplement options. Dr. Sachin H. Jain, CEO of SCAN Group, emphasized the importance of easier navigation and responsive healthcare tailored to older adults' needs.

Other warehouse clubs like BJ's or Sam's Club, as well as Amazon, have not announced plans to follow Costco's lead. Medicare is a government-sponsored insurance plan, not free of cost, and Original Medicare has no limit on out-of-pocket expenses. Medicare supplement plans (Plan G or K) can help cover these additional costs, while Medicare Advantage (Part C) offers additional benefits and limits on out-of-pocket expenses.

Experts advise checking Star Ratings, confirming doctors are in network, and comparing total costs before enrolling. The National Council on Aging recommends asking four key questions when selecting a plan. Medicare costs for 2027 are still being finalized, but government forecasts provide a clearer picture of what beneficiaries can expect.