Blue Cross Blue Shield vs. UnitedHealthcare Medigap in Texas (2026 Comparison)

If you’re shopping for Medicare Supplement coverage in Texas, chances are you’ve come across two big names - Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas and UnitedHealthcare.

Both are highly trusted, nationally recognized carriers with long track records of serving Medicare beneficiaries, but they approach coverage and customer experience in slightly different ways.

UnitedHealthcare currently holds the largest share of Medigap members in Texas, covering roughly 23.6% of all policyholders statewide. They’ve built their reputation on affordability, strong household discounts, and member perks that appeal to people who want a connected, wellness-driven experience.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, on the other hand, consistently ranks among the top-rated Medigap insurers in the country for its stability, customer service, and dependable rate history. It’s the kind of company many of our clients describe as “quietly reliable” - not the flashiest, but one you can count on year after year.

In this comparison, we’ll break down how the two carriers differ in Medigap plan options, pricing, member experience, and long-term value, so you can make a confident, informed decision before enrolling.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas is a Texas-based legacy carrier with deep, long-standing relationships across the state’s hospital systems and healthcare providers.

It’s known for a straightforward, transparent approach to Medicare Supplement coverage - focusing on stability, service, and predictable pricing rather than flashy extras.

The company offers a simplified Medigap lineup that includes Plan G, Plan N, and the legacy Plan F for those eligible for Medicare before 2020. These are among the most popular and widely trusted plans in Texas.

Blue Cross Blue Shield is the second-largest Medigap provider in the United States, holding about 13.7% of the national market share, and the second-largest in Texas, serving 18.5% of all Medigap members statewide as of 2023.

It operates under the Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) - the same parent company that runs Blue Cross plans in five states - giving it exceptional financial strength and consistency.

BCBSTX has built its reputation on steady renewal rates, a smooth claims process, and dependable customer service. For many policyholders, it represents the kind of coverage you can set and forget - confident it will keep working behind the scenes year after year.

Pros:

• Excellent rate stability and predictable long-term pricing.
  
• Texas-based service and strong provider relationships.
  
• Fast, straightforward claims process with low complaint rates.
  
• Backed by HCSC’s strong financial foundation.
  
• Consistent nationwide access - no network restrictions.
  

Cons:

• Fewer plan variations compared to larger national carriers.
  
• Limited extra perks - no built-in wellness or fitness programs.
  
• Household discounts can vary by region and are typically 5–10%.
  
• Premiums may start slightly higher but tend to remain stable over time.
  

UnitedHealthcare

UnitedHealthcare is the largest Medigap provider in the nation, serving more than 4.3 million members and holding about 33.6% of the national market share.

In Texas, it’s the #1 Medigap carrier, with 23.6% of all policyholders statewide as of the end of 2023.

UnitedHealthcare brings an added level of trust and familiarity for retirees. Members gain access to extra discounts, health tools, and wellness benefits that extend beyond standard Medigap coverage.

The company offers eight of the ten standardized Medigap plans - including Plans A, B, C, F, G, K, L, and N - along with Medicare Select options, which provide lower premiums for those who prefer using in-network hospitals for inpatient care.

UnitedHealthcare is also known for its scale and efficiency. Its customer service network operates nationwide, offering comprehensive support, fast claims processing, and member programs that encourage preventive health.

According to industry data, UHC’s Medigap plans generate about 40% fewer complaints than the industry average - a reflection of the company’s consistency and size.

Pros:

• The nation’s largest and most recognized Medigap provider.
  
• Broad plan selection - 8 of the 10 standardized Medigap plans available.
  
• Among the best household discounts in the industry (up to 10%)
  
• Includes valuable extras like gym memberships, wellness programs, and hearing and vision discounts.
  
• Low complaint rate and strong customer satisfaction.
  

Cons:

• Some plans bundle wellness extras that can slightly raise premiums.
  
• Medicare Select plans limit inpatient care to participating hospitals.
  
• Premiums may increase faster in some areas.
  
• Plan options and naming structures can be confusing for new buyers.

Medigap Plan Availability in Texas

When it comes to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) coverage, both Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) and UnitedHealthcare (UHC) offer several plan options for Texans.

It’s important to remember that all Medigap plans are standardized by the federal government. That means a Plan G from Blue Cross covers the exact same benefits as a Plan G from UnitedHealthcare - and the same goes for every other plan letter.

No matter which carrier you choose, the medical coverage is identical.

Where these companies differ is in their pricing, service experience, and added benefits, which we’ll outline below.

#1. BCBSTX

Available Plans:

• Plan A
  
• Plan G
  
• Plan N
  
• Plan F (available only to those eligible for Medicare before Jan. 1, 2020)
  

Note: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas does not currently offer High Deductible Plan G or High Deductible Plan F.

Most Popular Options:

• Plan G - The most comprehensive plan available to new Medicare beneficiaries. Covers all Medicare-approved out-of-pocket costs except the small Part B deductible.
  
• Plan N - Lower monthly premium with small, predictable copays ($20 for most doctor visits and $50 for emergency room visits that don’t result in admission). This plan is often a favorite among healthy, cost-conscious Texans.
  

Prescription Drug Plans:

• BCBSTX offers two standalone Part D prescription drug plans, which is relatively uncommon among Medigap carriers. Most insurers require members to purchase drug coverage separately through another company.
  

Extra Perks for Members:

• Blue365® fitness and wellness discount program - access to savings on gym memberships, nutrition, and wellness products.
  
• 24/7 nurse hotline for personalized health guidance.
  
• Option to add dental, hearing, and vision coverage for an additional premium.
  

Availability:

• Offered statewide across Texas, with particularly strong participation in Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and many rural counties.
  
• Serves about 25% of Texas’s overall health insurance market, making it one of the largest and most stable Medigap carriers in the state.
  

#2. UnitedHealthcare (UHC)

Available Plans:

• Plan A
  
• Plan B
  
• Plan C (for those eligible for Medicare before Jan. 1, 2020)
  
• Plan F (legacy only)
  
• Plan G
  
• Plan K
  
• Plan L
  
• Plan N
  

Most Popular Options in Texas:

• Plan G - UnitedHealthcare’s most popular plan nationwide, providing full coverage after the Part B deductible.
  
• Plan N - A top choice for healthy members who want lower premiums and don’t mind small doctor or ER copays.
  

Special Plan Options:

• Medicare Select versions of Plans G and N are available for members who prefer lower premiums and are comfortable using in-network hospitals for inpatient care.
  

Extra Perks for Members:

• Gym memberships and wellness programs through Renew Active®
  
• 24/7 nurse helpline
  
• Hearing and vision discounts
  
• Household discounts up to 10% for eligible couples or family enrollments
  

Availability:

• Offered statewide across Texas, including both urban and rural ZIP codes.
  

Medigap Pricing in Texas

Both Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) and UnitedHealthcare (UHC) offer competitive Medicare Supplement (Medigap) pricing throughout Texas - but they use different pricing models and adjust rates differently over time.

The examples below are based on a 65-year-old male, non-smoker living in ZIP code 77494 (Katy, Texas). Your own rate may vary depending on age, gender, ZIP code, tobacco use, and household discounts.

Medigap pricing isn’t set in stone - every company files its own rates by region, and those can change annually. So while this data gives you a realistic benchmark, your personal quote may look different.

Takeaway: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas starts at a competitive rate and remains consistent over time, though members should expect gradual age-based increases.

It’s a great fit for those who want dependable coverage with strong, local customer support.

Takeaway: UnitedHealthcare’s Medigap plans offer long-term pricing stability through the community-rated model.

Premiums may start higher in some ZIP codes, but they’re less likely to climb year after year as you age.

Pricing Insights for Texas

• Rates vary widely. Even within Texas, premiums can differ by 30–40% between ZIP codes.
  
• Urban areas like Katy, Dallas, and Austin often see lower starting premiums due to more competition.
  
• Rural counties may have slightly higher premiums but steadier year-over-year renewals.
  
• Both carriers offer discounts for non-smokers and small savings for EFT autopay enrollment.
  

Summary

Even though Medigap benefits are standardized and identical under both companies, their pricing behaves differently over time.

UnitedHealthcare offers community-rated pricing, which means more predictable renewals and long-term stability.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas uses an age-attained model, starting with lower premiums but gradually increasing as you age.

If you want steady long-term rates and member perks, UnitedHealthcare may be the better fit.

If you prefer a Texas-based carrier with strong local service and competitive entry pricing, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas is an excellent choice.

Member Experience and Service

When you’re comparing Medicare Supplement plans, it’s not just about price - it’s about how your carrier treats you after you enroll.

Member experience can make all the difference when you need help with a claim, have questions about your benefits, or want clear communication about rate changes.

Both Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) and UnitedHealthcare (UHC) are strong performers in this area, but they deliver their service in different ways.

Here’s how they compare when it comes to support, reliability, and overall customer satisfaction.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX)

Customer Service and Support

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas offers a strong reputation for service within the state. Members have access to a Customer Advocate line, a formal complaints and appeals process, and detailed documentation of how to request a review if coverage is ever denied.

These support systems are clearly outlined in every Medigap policy, giving members confidence that issues will be handled professionally and transparently.

Blue Cross also provides tools like Blue Access for Members, an online portal that allows policyholders to track claims, review benefits, and find doctors who accept Medicare.

Reputation and Complaints

Across the country, Blue Cross companies have slightly higher-than-average complaint frequencies compared to other Medigap carriers - about 13% above the industry average, according to NerdWallet’s review.

That said, local satisfaction often varies, and BCBSTX’s regional reputation remains strong because of its long-standing relationships with Texas hospitals and providers.

Policyholders often appreciate that Blue Cross operates as a member-owned, nonprofit insurer through Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC), meaning its focus is on long-term service and rate stability rather than short-term profit.

Strengths:

• Local presence and deep understanding of the Texas healthcare market.
  
• Clear, documented process for handling complaints and appeals.
  
• Strong network relationships that make claims processing efficient.
  
• Added programs like Blue365®, hearing, and vision discounts add value.
  
• Reliable rate performance - premiums increase gradually under age-attained pricing.
  

Challenges:

• Some members report slower claims resolution in certain regions.
  
• Because BCBS plans are managed by different local entities, experience can vary slightly by area.
  
• Lacks national wellness programs or lifestyle perks that some competitors offer.
  

Bottom Line: For Texans who value familiar local service and long-term dependability, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas continues to perform well. Its age-attained pricing means premiums will rise gradually as you age, but most policyholders find those increases modest and predictable.

UnitedHealthcare (UHC)

Customer Service and Support

Among Medigap carriers, UnitedHealthcare consistently scores below average on complaint rates, according to NerdWallet and Forbes.

Customers frequently highlight smooth enrollment, clear billing, and responsive call centers as strengths.

UHC provides one of the most robust member support systems in the industry - offering 24/7 nurse lines, digital account management, and preventive wellness programs through Renew Active®, which includes gym access and online fitness tools.

The backing of UnitedHealth Group, the largest health insurer in the U.S., ensures consistency and resources that smaller carriers often can’t match.

Reputation and Complaints

UnitedHealthcare’s Medigap division earns high marks for customer satisfaction and reliability. NerdWallet notes that “customers rarely file complaints” about its Medicare Supplement plans.

However, some policyholders report confusion with billing or benefit explanations, particularly when comparing different plan versions.

These issues are generally minor but reflect the complexity that can come with a national program.

Strengths:

• One of the lowest complaint rates in the Medigap industry.
  
• Comprehensive member support tools and wellness programs.
  
• Consistent nationwide infrastructure backed by UnitedHealth Group.
  
• Community-rated pricing provides long-term premium stability not tied to age.
  

Challenges:

• Some members find the program structure confusing at first.
  
• Extra perks can add small administrative costs that influence premiums.
  
• Nationwide service may feel less “personal” compared to Texas-based carriers like BCBS.
  

Bottom Line: UnitedHealthcare stands out for its customer satisfaction, consistency, and long-term rate stability under the community-rated model.

It’s an excellent fit for Texans who prefer a national carrier with predictable renewals and access to wellness benefits.

Discounts and Added Benefits

When you compare Medigap companies, the price you pay each month is only part of the picture.

What really adds value are the little extras - discounts, wellness programs, and service perks that make your coverage feel like more than just an insurance card.

Both Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas and UnitedHealthcare include meaningful benefits for their members, but they take slightly different approaches.

Here’s how each one stands out.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX)

Household and Payment Discounts

‍If two or more people in the same household enroll with Blue Cross Blue Shield Medigap coverage, you’ll get a 5%–10% household discount.

The exact amount can vary slightly by ZIP code, but it’s an easy way for couples or family members to save.

Members who pay through automatic bank draft (EFT) may also receive a small administrative discount - and there are no extra fees if you prefer to pay monthly. Blue Cross keeps billing simple and predictable.

Health and Wellness Extras

‍Blue Cross doesn’t pile on flashy programs - it focuses on practical value. With the Blue365® program, members can save on gym memberships, vision and hearing care, nutrition programs, and wellness products.

Many Texans especially like the Fitness Your Way by Tivity Health partnership, which gives discounted access to gyms across the state.

For everyday support, members can call a 24/7 nurse hotline for non-emergency guidance. It’s a small but important feature that gives peace of mind between doctor visits.

Add-On Options‍

For those who want a bit more, Blue Cross offers optional dental, vision, and hearing coverage - helping fill the gaps not covered by Original Medicare or Medigap.

Travel Protection

‍All Blue Cross Medigap Plans G, N, and F include foreign travel emergency coverage, paying up to 80% of emergency medical costs abroad, up to plan limits.

Takeaway: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas keeps things simple, steady, and useful. Instead of bundling in dozens of extras you may never use, it focuses on a few high-value programs that Texans actually appreciate - reliability, flexibility, and access to care when you need it.

UnitedHealthcare (UHC)

Discounts That Make a Difference

‍UnitedHealthcare offers a 10% household discount for two members of the same household - one of the most generous and widely available discounts in Texas.

Flexible Enrollment and Member Support

‍UHC allows members to apply year-round, and discounts take effect right away once eligibility is confirmed.

Members also gain access to 24/7 nurse helplines, telehealth options, and wellness webinars, all designed to help you stay informed and proactive about your health.

Wellness and Lifestyle Benefits

‍Through the Renew Active® program, UHC members can enjoy free or discounted gym memberships, brain health tools, and wellness coaching - all at little or no additional cost.

These resources encourage seniors to stay physically and mentally active, while also helping prevent avoidable health issues.

Digital Tools and Convenience

‍UHC’s online member portal makes managing your plan easy. You can track claims, print ID cards, view coverage details, and compare prescription options in one place - all with a few clicks.

Takeaway: UnitedHealthcare puts a heavy focus on wellness, engagement, and convenience. It’s ideal for people who like feeling connected and supported, not just covered.

The trade-off is that all these extras can add small administrative costs over time - but most members find the benefits well worth it.

In a Nutshell

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas keeps things practical and low-maintenance, offering steady discounts and a few key health perks.

UnitedHealthcare focuses on wellness, technology, and lifestyle benefits, perfect for those who want to get the most out of their membership experience.

Both carriers provide excellent Medicare Supplement coverage - your decision really comes down to how you like to engage with your plan: quietly and reliably, or actively with wellness extras.

Rate Stability and Long-Term Value

While both Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) and UnitedHealthcare (UHC) offer strong, reliable Medigap coverage, the two companies differ in how their premiums change over time.

This section highlights each company’s pricing model, rate history, and financial outlook, helping you choose a plan that balances affordability today with predictability for the future.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX)

Pricing Model: Age-Attained

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas uses an age-attained pricing structure. That means your premium is based on your age when you enroll and gradually increases as you get older.

Initial premiums may be slightly lower than some community-rated competitors, but you should expect modest, age-based increases over time.

Rate Stability

• Historically, BCBSTX experiences steady, predictable annual increases, generally in the 4%–6% range each year.
  
• Rate adjustments are influenced by both medical inflation and the policyholder’s age, though the company is known for avoiding sudden premium spikes.
  
• Many long-time policyholders appreciate that, while their rates rise gradually, they remain manageable and consistent compared to smaller carriers.
  

Financial Strength

• Operates under Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) - one of the nation’s largest customer-owned, nonprofit insurers.
  
• A (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best, reflecting strong financial stability and a proven ability to pay claims.
  
• Because BCBSTX isn’t publicly traded, its focus tends to be on rate moderation and long-term policyholder retention, rather than short-term profit.
  

Takeaway: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas is ideal for those who value stability, local service, and gradual premium growth.

While rates increase with age, they typically do so in a predictable, controlled way, making it a great fit for Texans who plan to stay with the same Medigap plan for years to come.

UnitedHealthcare (UHC)

Pricing Model: Community-Rated

UnitedHealthcare uses a community-rated pricing model, meaning all members in the same area pay roughly the same premium regardless of age.

Your rate will not automatically increase each year simply because you get older.

Any rate changes typically stem from inflation, healthcare costs, or company-wide adjustments, not age-based recalculations.

Rate Stability

• Premiums are often higher at the start, but more predictable over time, especially for members who keep their plan long-term.
  
• Rate increases tend to fall in the 2%–5% per year range, which is below average compared to many age-attained carriers.
  
• Because UnitedHealthcare insures one of the largest Medigap member pools nationwide, it has the ability to spread risk and minimize sharp regional rate spikes.
  

Financial Strength

• Backed by UnitedHealth Group, the largest health insurer in the U.S.
  
• Holds an A+ (Superior) rating from A.M. Best, indicating excellent financial health and claims-paying capacity.
  
• Its national scale and deep financial reserves allow UHC to maintain strong rate stability and efficient claims processing across all states.
  

Takeaway: UnitedHealthcare is best for people who want predictable renewals and long-term rate consistency.

While the initial premium can be higher than some competitors, its community-rated model helps protect members from the age-based increases that come with most other insurers.

Which Is Better for You?

Both Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) and UnitedHealthcare (UHC) are outstanding choices for Medicare Supplement coverage in Texas.

They’re both financially strong, widely accepted, and trusted by millions of policyholders nationwide.

Before comparing the two, it’s important to understand that all Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are standardized and regulated by the federal government. That means Plan G from Blue Cross covers the exact same benefits as Plan G from UnitedHealthcare, and the same goes for Plans N and F.

So when you’re comparing these companies, you’re not comparing different medical benefits - you’re comparing things like pricing, customer experience, rate trends, and extra perks.

If you’re the type of person who values local service and steady long-term value, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas might feel like the more natural fit. It’s a Texas-based company with decades of experience in the state and strong relationships with hospitals and doctors across every region.

The company’s age-attained pricing model means that your premium will gradually increase as you age, but these increases tend to be moderate and predictable.

Historically, Blue Cross premiums rise slowly - often in the 4% to 6% range per year - which makes budgeting easier for retirees who plan to keep the same coverage for many years.

Blue Cross keeps things simple. The company focuses on the three most popular Medigap options - Plan G, Plan N, and the legacy Plan F - and adds just enough extras to make the experience comfortable without adding unnecessary costs.

You’ll have access to the Blue365® program, which offers fitness and wellness discounts, as well as a 24/7 nurse hotline and optional dental, vision, and hearing add-ons.

It’s a straightforward, dependable approach that appeals to people who want their coverage to quietly do its job without constant adjustments or complications.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for predictable pricing and more wellness benefits, UnitedHealthcare may be the better fit.

UnitedHealthcare’s community-rated pricing means that your premium does not automatically increase as you age - you’ll pay the same base rate as others in your area, regardless of whether you’re 65 or 75.

While your premiums can still increase due to inflation or company-wide adjustments, this model offers more long-term predictability for many members.

UnitedHealthcare also brings a few unique advantages. As the largest Medigap provider in the country, serving over 4 million members, it offers nationwide reliability and extensive support infrastructure. Members enjoy access to Renew Active®, which includes gym memberships, cognitive health tools, and wellness resources at little to no additional cost.

The company also includes helpful features like 24/7 nurse support, hearing and vision discounts, and a 10% household discount for couples or family members enrolling together.

The trade-off is that UnitedHealthcare premiums can start slightly higher in some ZIP codes, but for many people, that’s offset by the long-term stability of community-rated pricing.

At the end of the day, both carriers deliver the same standardized Medigap protection - what matters most is how you want your coverage to feel over time.

If you want Texas-based service, dependable rate performance, and straightforward coverage without the extras, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas is a trusted, long-term choice.

If you prefer a larger national company, stable community-rated pricing, and added wellness perks, UnitedHealthcare is hard to beat.

Both companies have earned their reputations for reliability, and either one can provide excellent Medicare Supplement protection that gives you freedom, choice, and peace of mind for years to come.

How We Can Help

At Policy Guide, we’ve helped thousands of people compare Medicare Supplement plans and find coverage that fits their needs - not just based on price, but on what truly works for them long term.

We understand that choosing between companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas and UnitedHealthcare can feel overwhelming. Our licensed agents take the time to walk you through every option, explain which carriers are performing best in your ZIP code, and help you make a confident, informed decision.

We focus on clarity, not sales. You’ll know exactly how each plan works, what to expect from your premiums, and how to keep your coverage secure for years to come.