Best Medicare Advantage Plans North Carolina 2025

There are several different Medicare Advantage plans in North Carolina for 2025 and finding the best plan to fit your needs can get a tad overwhelming.

Understanding all of your options and getting the right help is crucial for making informed choices about your healthcare.

We’ll guide you through the process of learning about eligibility, types of plans, benefits, and more.

Let’s embark on this journey to find the best Medicare Advantage plan for your needs!

 

Key Takeaways

  • North Carolina residents have access to comprehensive healthcare coverage through Medicare Advantage plans.

 

 

  • Financial assistance programs and local resources are available for North Carolina Medicare beneficiaries to help them choose the best option.

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Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans in North Carolina

Medicare Advantage plans offer an alternative to Original Medicare, combining benefits into a single plan and providing a Medicare card.

These plans are offered by Medicare-approved private insurance companies, giving North Carolina residents access to comprehensive health insurance coverage.

Most Medicare Advantage plans in the state include a Medicare prescription drug plan as part of their prescription drug coverage, making them an attractive option for those seeking all-in-one medical insurance.

However, some individuals may also consider Medicare supplement insurance plans as an alternative option.

 

Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans in North Carolina

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a Medicare Advantage plan in North Carolina, you must:

 

  • Be aged 65 or older
  • Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
  • Meet certain medical conditions such as end-stage renal disease or ALS
  • Individuals under 65 receiving Social Security disability benefits may also be eligible.

 

Before investigating the various Medicare Advantage plan options in the state, make sure you meet these eligibility criteria.

 

Types of Medicare Advantage Plans

North Carolina offers a range of Medicare Advantage plans, including:

 

  • HMOs
  • PPOs
  • PFFSs
  • SNPs

 

Each type of plan comes with distinct features and benefits tailored to different needs. Researching and comparing these options will help you find the plan that best matches your personal needs and preferences.

 

Benefits of Medicare Advantage Plans

One of the main advantages of Medicare Advantage plans in North Carolina is the comprehensive coverage they offer. Here are some of the services and options they cover:

 

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  • Medical services
  • Preventative services
  • Durable medical equipment
  • Ambulance services
  • Some mental health services
  • Additional options for Medigap policies
  • Medicare Part D (prescription drug) coverage

 

This comprehensive Medicare coverage makes Medicare Advantage plans a preferred choice for those who want one plan that caters to all their healthcare needs, including various Medicare plans.

Comparing Medicare Advantage Plans in North Carolina

Once you understand the basics of Medicare Advantage plans in North Carolina in 2025, it’s time to compare the different options available to find the best plan for your needs.

Taking into account:

 

  • Plan costs
  • Coverage options
  • Network providers
  • Plan ratings

 

will help you make a solid decision about the plan that best fits your specific healthcare needs.

 

Plan Costs

As you compare Medicare Advantage plans, it’s important to consider the various costs associated with each plan, such as:

 

  • Premiums
  • Deductibles
  • Coinsurance
  • Copayments

 

These costs can fluctuate based on the specific plan and provider, hence, assessing the expenses of each plan before deciding is necessary.

 

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Coverage Options

Another essential factor to consider when comparing Medicare Advantage plans is the coverage options available.

Some plans may include dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage, while others may focus on providing additional benefits like fitness club memberships.

Be sure to review the details of each plan to determine which coverage options best align with your healthcare needs.

 

Network Providers

In-network providers play a significant role in your Medicare Advantage plan choice, as they determine which healthcare providers you can access at a lower cost.

Medicare Advantage plans have a network of doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers that have agreed to provide services to plan members at negotiated rates.

Choosing an in-network provider will generally result in lower out-of-pocket costs compared to seeing an out-of-network provider. Ensure to go through the network of providers when selecting a Medicare Advantage plan to confirm your preferred doctors and hospitals are included.

 

Plan Ratings

CMS star ratings are a valuable tool for evaluating the quality and performance of Medicare Advantage plans in North Carolina.

These ratings range from 1 to 5 stars, with 5 stars being the highest rating, and are based on criteria such as customer service, patient safety, and preventive care.

Utilizing CMS star ratings to compare plans allows for a well-founded decision about the plan that best fits your healthcare needs.

Enrollment Process for Medicare Advantage Plans in North Carolina

Understanding the enrollment process for Medicare Advantage plans in North Carolina is crucial for ensuring you get the coverage you need.

Specific enrollment periods and processes for joining a Medicare Advantage plan exist, hence, familiarity with these guidelines is key to avoiding issues or penalties.

 

Initial Enrollment Period

 

Unitedhealthcare medicare advantage plans in nc The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a seven-month window for enrolling in Medicare when you first become eligible.

This period begins three months before the month you turn 65 and extends until three months after turning 65.

Enrolling in Medicare during this window is necessary to prevent any penalties or delays in coverage.

 

Special Enrollment Periods

In certain circumstances, such as job loss or relocation outside of a carrier’s service area, you may be eligible for a special enrollment period to enroll in or switch Medicare Advantage plans outside of the regular enrollment periods.

Be aware of these situations and the eligibility requirements to ensure you can make necessary changes to your Medicare Advantage plan when needed.

 

Switching Plans

If your healthcare needs change or you find a better Medicare Advantage plan option, it’s important to understand the process for switching plans.

Typically, you can only change plans during the open enrollment period, which usually occurs from October 15th to December 7th annually. Ensure to compare and assess your options during this period to identify the optimal plan for your changing needs.

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Prescription Drug Coverage in North Carolina Medicare Advantage Plans

Prescription drug coverage is an essential component of Medicare Advantage plans in North Carolina.

Whether you opt for a stand-alone Part D plan or integrated coverage within a Medicare Advantage plan, understanding your options for prescription drug coverage will help you make the best decision for your healthcare needs.

 

Stand-Alone Part D Plans

Stand-alone Part D plans provide separate prescription drug coverage for North Carolina Medicare beneficiaries. These plans are offered by private insurers and have varying premiums, with the lowest premium in 2023 estimated to be $4.20 per month.

Researching and comparing different stand-alone Part D plans allows you to find the optimal option for your prescription drug coverage needs.

 

Integrated Prescription Drug Coverage

Some Medicare Advantage plans in North Carolina include:

 

  • Prescription drug coverage as part of their benefits
  • An all-in-one solution for your healthcare needs
  • Integrated coverage to help you manage your prescription drug costs
  • Medical services and benefits offered by the Medicare Advantage plan

 

This integrated hospital insurance coverage, including medicare drug coverage, can help you manage your prescription drug costs while also providing you with the medical services and benefits offered by the Medicare Advantage plan.

 

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Be sure to review the details of each plan to determine whether integrated prescription drug coverage is the right choice for you.

Financial Assistance and Savings Programs for North Carolina Medicare Beneficiaries

For many North Carolina residents, the cost of Medicare can be a significant burden. However, there are financial assistance programs available to help with Medicare costs, ensuring that everyone has access to the healthcare they need.

 

Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs

Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs provide financial assistance to low-income beneficiaries for their Medicare premiums and other associated expenses. These programs can help individuals with limited income and resources afford their Medicare costs, ensuring that they have access to the healthcare services they need.

Reviewing the income and resource limits relevant to your situation is necessary to determine your eligibility for these programs.

 

Extra Help Program

The Extra Help Program is a federal program that helps eligible individuals with prescription drug costs.

 

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To qualify for this program, your yearly income and resources must be within certain limits, such as an income limit of $242 per month for single individuals and $317 per month for married individuals.

Accessing the Extra Help Program can significantly diminish your prescription drug costs, making your healthcare more affordable.

Resources for North Carolina Medicare Beneficiaries

Navigating the Medicare system can be challenging, but there are resources available to help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your healthcare.

From counseling services to local social services departments, these resources can offer the guidance and support necessary to identify the best Medicare Advantage plan for your needs.

 

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State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIIP)

 

 

 

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIIP) provides free, unbiased information and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries and their families in North Carolina.

SHIIP counselors are trained volunteers who offer personalized guidance and support, helping you understand your Medicare benefits, coverage options, and enrollment processes.

To access SHIIP services, you can contact their toll-free number at 1-855-408-1212.

 

Our website, Comparemedicareadvantageplans.org, is also a great resource that allows you to:

  • Compare different Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans
  • Focus on drug coverage and costs to find the perfect fit for your healthcare needs
  • Input your information and sort through a variety of plans
  • Weigh the pros and cons of each based on your personal situation.

Speak with one of our licensed insurance agents for assistance on Medicare Advantage Plans by calling 1-833-641-4938 (TTY 711), Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.–9 p.m. EST.

 

Local Department of Social Services

Local departments of social services play an essential role in providing information and support for Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina.

They can help you grasp your Medicare options, resolve any issues or concerns, and link you to useful resources, such as the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIIP).

By contacting your local Department of Social Services, you can access assistance.

Summary

Understanding the ins and outs of Medicare Advantage plans in North Carolina doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

By learning about eligibility, types of plans, benefits, and available resources, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare and find the best plan for your needs.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to the resources mentioned in this blog post, such as SHIIP and local social services departments, for personalized guidance and support.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

How much does Medicare Advantage cost in NC?

The average cost of a North Carolina Medicare Advantage Plan is $14.05 in 2023, increasing to $17.10 in 2024 with 163 plans available.

 

What are 3 types of Medicare Advantage plans?

Medicare Advantage plans include Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans, Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans, Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS) plans, and Special Needs plans (SNPs).

 

What types of Medicare Advantage plans are available in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, Medicare Advantage plans available include Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS), and Special Needs Plans (SNP).

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 ZRN Health & Financial Services, LLC, a Texas limited liability company

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Speak with a licensed insurance agent

 1-833-641-4938
TTY 711

Mon-Fri : 8am-9pm EST

Russell Noga
( Medicare Expert )

Russell Noga is the CEO of ZRN Health & Financial Services, and head content editor of several Medicare insurance online publications. He has over 15 years of experience as a licensed Medicare insurance broker helping Medicare beneficiaries learn about Medicare, Medicare Advantage Plans, Medigap insurance, and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans.