A brand-new partnership in senior healthcare is set to launch for 2027. SCAN Health Plan has officially joined forces with Costco Wholesale to introduce co-branded Medicare Advantage HMO plans across 17 California counties, effective January 1, 2027.
If you are currently evaluating your coverage during Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7), you might be wondering: Is this new SCAN Costco plan just a discount program, or is it full health coverage? Do I need a Costco executive membership to sign up? And how does it stack up against traditional Medicare Advantage offerings?
As an independent, no-pressure California Medicare broker, my goal is to give you plain-English, objective advice so you can make the right decision for your healthcare and budget. Here is a breakdown of what this partnership entails, what benefits are included, and what you must consider before enrolling.
How the SCAN & Costco Partnership Works
The relationship between SCAN Health Plan and Costco began in October 2025, when Costco became a preferred pharmacy within SCAN’s provider network. That expanded relationship led to the co-branded SCAN Costco Medicare Advantage (HMO) plans for the 2027 plan year.
It is important to understand the division of roles:
- SCAN Health Plan is the licensed Medicare insurer. SCAN manages the HMO network, claims processing, medical coverage, and provider credentialing.
- Costco contributes pharmacy services, fulfillment logistics (in-warehouse pickup, mail-order, and delivery via Instacart), and integrated access to its optical and hearing centers.
What Do the 2027 California SCAN Costco Plans Offer?
The SCAN Costco Medicare Advantage plans provide comprehensive healthcare coverage combined with retail-integrated benefits across 17 California counties. Key features generally include low or zero monthly premiums, zero copays for primary care and select prescription drugs, and various allowances for supplemental needs such as over-the-counter items, healthy foods, vision care, hearing aids, and dental services.
Benefits and dollar allowances are customized by county and plan service area. However, the core structure across Southern California, the Bay Area, and the Central Valley focuses on low out-of-pocket medical costs paired with everyday lifestyle value.
Additionally, members gain access to a reimagined Costco pharmacy experience, featuring options like warehouse pickup, mail order, and home delivery, even transportation support for health-related visits. Because specific allowances, provider networks, and benefits vary by county, participants are encouraged to review their local plan details during the enrollment period.
California County Availability
For 2027, the SCAN Costco Medicare Advantage (HMO) plan is available in 17 California counties:
- Southern California: Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Ventura.
- San Francisco Bay Area: Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo, and Santa Clara.
- Sacramento & Central Valley Region: Fresno, Kings, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Yolo.
Is a SCAN Costco HMO Right for You?
While headline allowances look attractive, your medical doctor network and primary hospital access should always come first. Because this is an HMO, you must use in-network doctors and medical groups for your routine care. Check the 2027 plan benefits, provider network, and formulary for your county before deciding.
Before making any switch, it is essential to verify:
- Are your current primary care physician and specialists in SCAN’s HMO network for 2027?
- Are your specific prescription medications listed on the 2027 SCAN formulary at preferred copay tiers?
- Does the localized county evidence of coverage fit your total medical needs?
Get Free, Independent Medicare Advice in California
Choosing between Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement (Medigap), and Part D plans can feel overwhelming. As an independent Medicare broker, I don’t work for the insurance companies, I work for you. My consultations are always 100% free and carry zero pressure.
Whether you want to check if your doctor accepts the new 2027 SCAN Costco plan or compare all available options in your California county, I am here to help.
- Call/Text: (818) 414-1385
- Email: jason@jasonrubinins.com
- Schedule Online
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a Costco membership to enroll in this Medicare plan?
No. Costco membership isn’t required to enroll in a SCAN Medicare Advantage plan. Eligibility depends on the specific SCAN plan and the area where you live. Certain purchases or services available through Costco may require an active Costco membership.
Can I fill my prescriptions at pharmacies other than Costco?
Yes. While Costco serves as a primary preferred pharmacy, offering preferred copays and home delivery, SCAN maintains a broad network of participating independent and retail preferred pharmacies throughout California. As preferred status and delivery options vary, check SCAN’s 2027 pharmacy information for eligibility. Costco does require an active Costco membership for pharmacy access.
How does the SCAN Costco plan compare to classic SCAN plans?
– Out-of-Pocket Max: Certain SCAN Costco options (such as those in Los Angeles/Orange County) feature low annual medical out-of-pocket maximums.
– Supplemental Benefits: The Costco co-branded plan focuses heavily on quarterly Flex card allowances, optical care, and pharmacy delivery conveniences.
– Dental & Care Structure: Traditional SCAN plans (like SCAN Classic) may offer different dental copay structures or higher-tier hearing aid hardware models.
