ISSAQUAH, Wash. — Costco Wholesale Corp. and nonprofit insurer SCAN Group have partnered to launch Costco-branded Medicare plans, marking the retailer’s first entry into the Medicare market and its first comprehensive Medicare partnership. Announced Tuesday, the expanded alliance is designed to deliver greater value and an improved healthcare experience for older adults.
The partnership combines SCAN’s decades of expertise serving seniors with Costco’s trusted consumer brand and member-focused approach. Over the coming years, the companies plan to introduce a range of senior-focused insurance products aimed at simplifying healthcare coverage and enhancing benefits for Medicare beneficiaries. Pending regulatory approval, future offerings could include a redesigned pharmacy experience, Medicare Flex over-the-counter (OTC) benefits, vision care, audiology services, and additional health-related programs.
"For the millions of older adults who rely on Medicare Advantage, the future of the program depends on strong partnerships that make healthcare more accessible, more connected and more seamlessly integrated into everyday life," said Dr. Sachin H. Jain, CEO of SCAN Group and SCAN Health Plan. "Older adults want healthcare that is easier to navigate, more responsive to their needs and rooted in organizations they trust. Our expanded partnership with Costco will give us a strong foundation to explore new ways to help people stay healthy and independent while delivering the quality, value, and service both of our organizations are known for."
The expanded partnership represents a shared commitment to leverage the complementary strengths of both organizations.
"For more than 40 years, Costco has consistently listened to our Members and earned their trust delivering consistent value on essential goods and expanding our health service offerings," said Ron Vachris, CEO of Costco. “Selecting SCAN as our partner to deliver a better healthcare experience for seniors, is an extension of that commitment. We have developed a shared understanding of what matters most to the seniors we serve. Deepening our partnership allows us to build on that foundation and create value for our Members.”
This announcement marks the beginning of a new chapter for SCAN and Costco and reflects a shared vision for what's possible. Last year, SCAN launched the “Health Insurance is Broken Campaign” to acknowledge the disjointed experience that many seniors face accessing care and services. The partnership between SCAN and Costco aims to accelerate practical health solutions and better serve seniors.
