If you’re shopping for Medicare Advantage in 2026, two names keep coming up: UnitedHealthcare and SCAN. Both carriers are offering $0 premium options in California — but the truth is, what you’ll actually pay depends on details like MOOP limits, drug caps, and doctor access. Choosing wrong could cost you hundreds this year. If you’re searching for 2026 UnitedHealthcare vs SCAN Medicare Advantage in California, here’s the full breakdown of costs, perks, and where seniors are really saving.
Skyline Benefit is an independent Medicare broker helping Californians cut through the noise. We confirm your doctors’details, review your prescriptions, and compare every carrier so you can lock in the best plan — at no extra cost.
How Much Do 2026 UnitedHealthcare vs SCAN Medicare Advantage Plans in California Cost?
- UnitedHealthcare (UHC) in California:
- $0 premium HMO-POS options across counties (e.g., CA-004P in LA, CA-005P in OC).
- Premium-based options like UCLA’s CA-37 HMO at $75/month.
- SCAN Medicare Advantage (California):
- Classic Prime: $0 premium in LA, OC, and Inland Empire.
- Venture: $20–$75 premium depending on county, but includes up to $185/month Part B giveback.
Takeaway: Most UHC and SCAN plans start at $0 premiums. SCAN Venture can lower your Social Security deduction with its giveback, while UHC’s UCLA plan charges $75 for broader UCLA access.
What Is the MOOP for 2026? (The Number That Protects Your Wallet)
MOOP (Maximum Out-of-Pocket) tells you the most you’ll pay in a year. Once you hit it, covered care is $0.
- UnitedHealthcare: ~$3,400–$3,900 MOOP depending on the plan.
- SCAN Classic Prime: $2,400–$2,499 MOOP — one of the lowest in California.
- SCAN Venture: Slightly higher MOOP, but offset by Part B rebates.
California seniors facing hospital stays or chronic conditions often save more under SCAN.
Where Can You Use the Plans?
- UHC: $0 copays for primary care, wide California networks, plus UCLA-focused options. Out-of-network flexibility exists in POS designs — but expect higher cost-share.
- SCAN: Strong HMO presence across LA, OC, and beyond, with $0 copays for primary care and routine labs. But you must stay in-network except for emergencies.
What About Prescription Drug Coverage?
- UHC: $0 generics at preferred pharmacies, deductible applies to higher tiers.
- SCAN: $0 generics, $35 insulin cap, $0 vaccines, and $2,100 federal drug MOOP in 2026.
Which Extras Tip the Scale in 2026?
- UnitedHealthcare: UCard (OTC, utilities, groceries), dental/vision allowances, transportation, global emergency care.
- SCAN: FlexEssentials card (OTC, groceries, utilities, transport), expanded dental including implants/dentures, vision & hearing perks.
Which Plan Fits California Seniors Best?
- Choose UHC if: You want UCLA access, nationwide network strength, or flexibility with out-of-network dental/vision.
- Choose SCAN if: You want lower MOOP, a Part B giveback, and $0 premium options designed for budget-conscious seniors.
Need Help Comparing UnitedHealthcare vs SCAN in California?
Skyline Benefit is an independent Medicare broker in California. We’ll compare 2026 UnitedHealthcare vs SCAN Medicare Advantage in California side by side, verify your doctors and prescriptions, and help you lock in the right plan before Open Enrollment closes.
Call us at: (714) 888-5112