North Carolina's Insurance Commissioner, Mike Causey, has issued a reminder to seniors within the state—there's an opportunity to reassess and, if necessary, alter Medicare Advantage Plans up until March 31. This announcement, made in collaboration with the Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), marks the state's ongoing Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period that commenced on January 1, according to information provided by the North Carolina Department of Insurance.
"Our health can change significantly in a very short period of time,” Causey said. Cognizant of the evolving nature of health needs, particularly for seniors, he urged current Medicare Advantage Plan holders to ensure that their plan still aligns with their requirements. Seniors dissatisfied with their current Medicare Advantage Plan (Medicare Part C) have until the end of March to either switch to another Medicare Advantage Plan with or without drug coverage, or revert to Original Medicare—and, if appropriate, also attach a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan, as per North Carolina Department of Insurance.
Changes made during this enrollment window will take effect on the first day of the following month after the new plan receives the coverage request. A crucial note for seniors to consider is that shifting back to Original Medicare might preclude the possibility of acquiring a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policy later on.
To navigate these options and the enrollment process, SHIIP counselors can be reached at 1-855-408-1212 from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For additional support, the Medicare Plan Finder, can assist seniors in locating and enrolling in new Medicare Advantage or Medicare drug plans based on their locale. For further guidance, the Medicare helpline is available at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), with TTY users encouraged to call 1-877-486-2048.
This Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period specifically serves individuals who are currently in a Medicare Advantage Plan. If you are looking to review or change your plan, remember that the clock is ticking. With the deadline approaching on March 31, now is the crucial moment to act on any desired changes to ensure coverage continues to meet personal health care needs.
