in New Hanover County
Wilmington, North Carolina residents have access to 8 Medicare plans for 2026, and Health Plans of NC is here to help you compare every option at no cost, with coverage that connects directly to local health systems like Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
Wilmington, North Carolina is home to approximately 21,000 Medicare-eligible residents, representing 17.8% of the city's total population of 118,578, making access to quality Medicare coverage a top priority for a significant share of the community. Local health systems, including Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center and Cape Fear Memorial Hospital, accept Medicare and provide a comprehensive range of services from emergency care to advanced diagnostics and specialized treatments. Wilmington residents can choose from Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, Part D prescription drug plans, and Dual Special Needs Plans, giving beneficiaries multiple paths to coverage that fits their individual healthcare needs.
Plan Name | Type | Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
Blue Medicare Medical Only | HMO-POS | $0.00/month |
Blue Medicare Essential | HMO | $0.00/month |
Blue Medicare Essential Plus | HMO-POS | $0.00/month |
Blue Medicare Enhanced | HMO-POS | $30.00/month |
Blue Medicare PPO Enhanced | PPO | $35.00/month |
Blue Medicare Freedom+ | HMO-POS | $0.00/month |
Healthy Blue Medicare (D-SNP) | HMO-POS | $0.00/month |
Blue Medicare Rx Enhanced PDP | PDP | $163.20/month |
Medicare Advantage HMO plans in Wilmington, North Carolina give beneficiaries coordinated care access through local provider networks that include Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center.
Medicare Advantage HMO-POS plans in Wilmington, North Carolina offer in-network and some out-of-network flexibility, useful for beneficiaries who occasionally need care beyond local facilities like Cape Fear Memorial Hospital.
Medicare Advantage PPO plans in Wilmington, North Carolina provide broader network access, including the ability to see specialists at area hospitals and rehabilitation centers without a referral.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans in Wilmington, North Carolina cover gaps left by Original Medicare, such as copayments and coinsurance, and allow beneficiaries to visit any provider nationwide that accepts Medicare, including local specialists.
Part D Prescription Drug Plans in Wilmington, North Carolina offer standalone drug coverage for residents who remain on Original Medicare or a Medicare Supplement plan and need help managing medication costs.
Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) in Wilmington, North Carolina serve residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, coordinating benefits across both programs to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
For 2026, Blue Cross NC offers eight Medicare plans in Wilmington, North Carolina, spanning HMO, HMO-POS, PPO, PDP, and D-SNP plan types, giving beneficiaries a range of options at varying premium levels. Each plan is structured to work within local provider networks, including facilities like Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Cape Fear Memorial Hospital, the Davis Community, and Autumn Care of Myrtle Grove, meaning the plan type a resident selects will directly shape their access to local care. Health Plans of NC can walk Wilmington residents through each plan's network details, formulary, and benefits side-by-side at no cost.
Blue Medicare Medical Only, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, provides hospital and medical coverage through local in-network providers in Wilmington, North Carolina, with HMO-POS flexibility for occasional out-of-network needs.
Blue Medicare Essential, HMO, $0.00 per month, bundles hospital and medical coverage into a coordinated care plan that works within the Wilmington, North Carolina provider network.
Blue Medicare Essential Plus, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, adds HMO-POS flexibility to essential hospital and medical coverage for Wilmington, North Carolina beneficiaries who may need some out-of-network access.
Blue Medicare Enhanced, HMO-POS, $30.00 per month, offers expanded benefits beyond the base plans, including additional coverage tiers suited for Wilmington, North Carolina residents with higher healthcare utilization needs.
Blue Medicare PPO Enhanced, PPO, $35.00 per month, gives Wilmington, North Carolina beneficiaries the broadest network access among the available plans, allowing visits to specialists and facilities both in and out of network.
Blue Medicare Freedom+, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, combines a $0 premium with HMO-POS network access, making it a strong option for Wilmington, North Carolina residents seeking low-cost coverage with some provider flexibility.
Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, is a Dual Special Needs Plan designed for Wilmington, North Carolina residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, coordinating both programs into one plan.
Blue Medicare Rx Enhanced PDP, standalone Part D prescription drug plan, $163.20 per month, provides prescription drug coverage for Wilmington, North Carolina residents who are enrolled in Original Medicare or a Medicare Supplement plan.
In 2026, several Medicare Advantage plans in Wilmington, North Carolina are available at $0.00 per month, including Blue Medicare Medical Only, Blue Medicare Essential, Blue Medicare Essential Plus, Blue Medicare Freedom+, and Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP, while Blue Medicare Enhanced carries a $30.00 monthly premium and Blue Medicare PPO Enhanced is $35.00 per month. The standalone Blue Medicare Rx Enhanced PDP prescription drug plan is priced at $163.20 per month for Wilmington, North Carolina residents who need drug coverage outside of a Medicare Advantage plan. With a median household income of $63,900 in Wilmington, North Carolina, some residents may qualify for federal cost-reduction programs that lower or eliminate premiums and out-of-pocket costs, and Health Plans of NC agents can help identify that eligibility at no charge.
Part A: $0 premium for most Wilmington, North Carolina residents who paid Medicare taxes for 10 or more years. The Part A hospital deductible is $1,736 in 2026.
Part B: $202.90 per month standard premium in 2026, an increase from $185.00 in 2025. Higher-income residents pay more through income-related monthly adjustment amounts.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap): $80 to $300 or more per month depending on plan letter and age, covers gaps not paid by Original Medicare.
For 2026, Blue Cross NC is the Medicare carrier serving Wilmington, North Carolina, offering a total of 8 Medicare plans to eligible residents across the area. These plans span multiple plan types, including HMO, HMO-POS, PPO, Part D prescription drug plans, and a Dual Special Needs Plan, giving Wilmington beneficiaries a broad range of structures to choose from based on their care preferences and financial situation. Blue Cross NC plan networks connect directly to local health systems in Wilmington, North Carolina, including Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center and Cape Fear Memorial Hospital, as well as senior care facilities like the Davis Community, Autumn Care of Myrtle Grove, and Leland House Assisted Living. The plan type a Wilmington, North Carolina resident selects will significantly affect their access to local specialists, rehabilitation services, and long-term care providers, making it essential to evaluate network participation before enrolling. Health Plans of NC agents compare every available Medicare plan in Wilmington, North Carolina side-by-side at no cost, helping beneficiaries identify the Blue Cross NC plan that best aligns with their provider preferences and healthcare needs.
Blue Cross NC, offering HMO, HMO-POS, PPO, PDP, and D-SNP plan types, with a total of 8 Medicare plans available to eligible residents in Wilmington, North Carolina for 2026.
Wilmington, North Carolina has an uninsured rate of 11.6% and a poverty rate of 16.3%, meaning a meaningful share of Medicare-eligible residents may qualify for federal and state programs that significantly reduce Medicare costs. Extra Help, also known as the Low Income Subsidy, can reduce Part D prescription drug costs to near $0 for qualifying Wilmington residents, while Medicare Savings Programs can cover the Part B premium entirely for those who meet income and resource thresholds. Residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid may be eligible for the Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP, which coordinates benefits across both programs into a single plan with reduced out-of-pocket exposure. Health Plans of NC agents check eligibility for all available assistance programs at no cost, ensuring Wilmington, North Carolina beneficiaries are not paying more than necessary for their coverage.
Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy) can reduce Part D prescription drug plan costs significantly for Wilmington, North Carolina residents who meet federal income and resource guidelines.
Medicare Savings Programs can cover Part B premiums and cost-sharing for qualifying low-income Wilmington, North Carolina Medicare beneficiaries enrolled through the state.
The Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP is available to Wilmington, North Carolina residents who are enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid, providing coordinated coverage through a single $0 premium plan.
NC Medicaid may provide additional coverage and cost assistance for low-income Wilmington, North Carolina residents who do not yet qualify for Medicare or who need supplemental benefits alongside Medicare.
Health Plans of NC agents can screen Wilmington, North Carolina residents for all available financial assistance programs and help with applications at no cost to the beneficiary.
Health Plans of NC licensed agents serve Wilmington, North Carolina residents at no cost, comparing every available 2026 Medicare plan side-by-side to help you find the right coverage for your health needs and budget, and assisting with enrollment and plan changes throughout the year. Call 800-797-0327 today to speak with a local Medicare expert who knows the Wilmington, North Carolina market and can guide you to the plan that works best for you.
Call 800-797-0327 (toll free) or 704-303-8256 to speak with a licensed Medicare agent and schedule a free appointment
Email [email protected] with questions about Medicare plans available in Wilmington, North Carolina
Find a licensed agent and book directly at healthplansofnc.com/agents
No cost, no pressure. Walk-ins by appointment only, phone and email welcome anytime.
Enrolled in Part A and Part B? Get more with Blue Medicare Supplement Original Medicare only covers some of your medical costs. That’s why Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) offers reliable Medicare Supplement plans to help lessen the worries over what Medicare doesn’t cover.
• Coverage for the costs not covered by Original Medicare (Parts A and B) • The freedom to see any Medicare-participating provider nationwide that accepts Medicare • Rates as low as $31.50 per month1 • Flexibility to change plans • Fitness benefit and hearing benefit on all five plans
With some insurers, you can get locked into a plan that may not be right for you. But thanks to our exclusive Blue-to-Blue program, if your needs change over time, Blue Cross NC gives you the flexibility to switch Medicare plans:2 • Without additional medical exams • Without underwriting or additional health questions • Without any hassle
You cannot be turned down for Blue Medicare Supplement, and may not have to complete a medical questionnaire, if you meet all of the following criteria: • You are age 65 or older, or under age 65 and are eligible for Medicare due to disability3 • You enroll within six months of enrolling in Medicare Part B • You are not covered by certain Medicaid programs • You are a resident of North Carolina
If you enroll early, you may be eligible for a Medicare Supplement plan without waiting periods for pre-existing conditions. If you wait until after your deadline to enroll, you may have a waiting period for pre-existing conditions.
Fitness memberships at in-network facilities using the designated provider. Unlimited access to the vendor’s online platform. SilverSneakers is more than a traditional fitness program. It’s a way to improve your health and live the life you want.
In the gym:
• Thousands of participating locations4 nationwide with various amenities • Ability to enroll at multiple locations at any time • SilverSneakers classes5 designed for all levels and abilities
At home or on the go: • SilverSneakers LIVE online classes and workshops led by specially trained instructors, 7 days a week • SilverSneakers On-Demand videos available 24/7 • SilverSneakers GO mobile app with personalized program resources, adjustable workout plans, and more
In your community: • Group activities and classes5 offered outside the gym
Always talk with your doctor before starting an exercise program.
TruHearing covers one hearing aid per ear per year for a low copay of $499 for Standard hearing aids, $699 for Advanced hearing aids or $999 for Premium hearing aids. Also, as part of the program, a TruHearing provider will help you choose the best hearing aid for your lifestyle and unique hearing needs.
Blue Cross NC is more than a health insurance company. We’re North Carolinians serving North Carolinians. For over 90 years, we’ve been in your community, giving back and listening to how we can provide access to the quality care you deserve.
• Compare plan benefits • Get a free rate quote
Notes: • For costs and further details of the coverage, including exclusions, any reductions or limitations, and terms under which the policy may be continued in force, contact your agent or the company. • Plan A: BMS A, 1/26; Plan G: BMS G, 1/26; Plan G-HD: BMS HDG, 1/26;Plan K: BMS K, 1/26; Plan N: BMS N, 1/26. • Agent/Agency is an independent authorized Agent/Agency licensed to sell and promote products from Blue Cross NC. The content contained in this site is maintained by Agent/Agency. • Medicare Supplement insurance plans are not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. • Policy benefits are limited to those approved by Medicare for payment.
Disclaimers: • Blue Cross NC contracts with independent companies to provide supplemental benefits. These companies are responsible for the services they provide. They do not provide Blue Cross or Blue Shield products or services. Marks and trade names are property of their respective owners. This fitness program is not an insurance offering. • SilverSneakers is a registered trademark of Tivity Health, Inc. © 2025Tivity Health, Inc. All rights reserved. • TruHearing is a registered trademark of TruHearing, Inc. TruHearing is an independent company and does not offer Blue Cross or Blue Shield products or services. This program may change or be discontinued at any time. This is not an insurance offering.
1 Example for a female non-smoker, age 65. Premium rates can vary based on a number of factors. Contact Blue Cross NC or your Authorized Independent Agent to learn more. 2 Blue-to-Blue is only available when you switch from one Blue Cross NC medical plan (limitations apply) to a Blue Cross NC Medicare plan. You may only switch during designated times of the year. Certain other limits apply. Contact the plan or your Authorized Independent Agent for more information. 3 Guaranteed acceptance for those under age 65 who have Medicare due to disability is limited to Plan A and Plan G. 4 Participating locations (PL) are not owned or operated by Tivity Health, Inc. or its affiliates. Use of PL facilities and amenities is limited to terms and conditions of PL basic membership. Facilities and amenities vary by PL. Inclusion of specific PLs is not guaranteed and PL participation may differ by health plan. 5 Membership includes SilverSneakers instructor-led group
®, SM are marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans. All other marks and names are property of their respective owners. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. U4093, 12/25
Wilmington, North Carolina ZIP Codes include: 28401, 28402, 28403, 28404, 28405, 28406, 28407, 28408, 28409, 28410, 28411, and 28412
