Live Worry-Free. Find the Right Medicare Plan in NC. in Clay County
North Carolina
in North Carolina
Health Plans of NC helps Clay County, NC residents compare and enroll in Medicare plans at no cost, offering local guidance tailored to the rural mountain communities served by Murphy Medical Center and Mission Health HCA. With 7 Medicare plans available for 2026, residents have meaningful options to review with the help of a licensed agent who understands the local provider landscape.
Clay County, NC has a population of 11,391, and approximately 4,000 residents, representing 32.3% of the county, are eligible for Medicare and can choose from several types of coverage for 2026. Facilities including Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital in Murphy, Angel Medical Center in Franklin, and Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva all accept Medicare, giving Clay County seniors access to hospital and specialist care across the western North Carolina region. Health Plans of NC helps residents in Hayesville, Shooting Creek, and Brasstown navigate each coverage type so their chosen plan aligns with the providers they already use.
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 | $40.00/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 bundle hospital, medical, and often drug coverage into one plan accepted at Murphy Medical Center and affiliated providers in Clay County.
Medicare Advantage HMO-POS plans offer the flexibility of both in-network and limited out-of-network access, useful for Clay County seniors who occasionally travel to Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital or Angel Medical Center.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans fill the cost gaps left by Original Medicare and allow Clay County residents to use any Medicare-accepting provider, including Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva and Haywood Regional Medical Center in Clyde.
Part D Prescription Drug Plans provide standalone drug coverage for Clay County seniors enrolled in Original Medicare or a Medicare Supplement plan, covering medications filled at pharmacies in and near Hayesville.
Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) are available for Clay County residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, coordinating benefits across Mission Health HCA facilities and other regional providers.
Blue Cross NC offers seven Medicare plans in Clay County for 2026, including HMO, HMO-POS, and Part D options that connect enrollees to local provider networks anchored by Murphy Medical Center and Mission Health HCA facilities. Each plan has a defined premium and network structure, so Clay County seniors should verify that their preferred hospitals and specialists, such as those at Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital in Murphy or Angel Medical Center in Franklin, are included before enrolling. Health Plans of NC agents review every plan option side by side at no cost to help residents choose coverage that fits their specific provider relationships and prescription needs.
Blue Medicare Medical Only, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, provides medical-only coverage with access to in-network providers including facilities connected to Murphy Medical Center.
Blue Medicare Essential, HMO, $0.00 per month, bundles medical and hospital coverage through an HMO network that includes regional providers serving Clay County residents.
Blue Medicare Essential Plus, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, offers HMO-POS flexibility allowing Clay County seniors limited access to out-of-network providers when needed for specialty care.
Blue Medicare Enhanced, HMO-POS, $40.00 per month, provides an enhanced benefit package with broader coverage options for Clay County seniors seeking additional services beyond standard HMO offerings.
Blue Medicare Freedom+, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, gives Clay County enrollees point-of-service access to providers within and outside the primary network, including Mission Health HCA facilities.
Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, is designed for Clay County residents who are dual-eligible for Medicare and Medicaid, coordinating benefits across regional health systems.
Blue Medicare Rx Enhanced PDP, standalone Part D plan, $163.20 per month, provides prescription drug coverage for Clay County seniors enrolled in Original Medicare or a Medicare Supplement plan, covering medications at pharmacies near Hayesville.
In Clay County for 2026, Medicare Advantage plan premiums from Blue Cross NC range from $0.00 per month for plans like Blue Medicare Essential and Blue Medicare Freedom+ to $40.00 per month for Blue Medicare Enhanced, making low-cost comprehensive coverage accessible to many residents. The standalone Blue Medicare Rx Enhanced PDP is available at $163.20 per month for those who need prescription drug coverage alongside Original Medicare or a Medigap plan. With a median household income of $53,645 in Clay County, many residents may qualify for cost-reduction programs that lower their out-of-pocket expenses, and Health Plans of NC agents can identify those programs during a free plan comparison.
Part A: $0 premium for most Clay County 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.
Blue Cross NC is the Medicare carrier offering plans to Clay County residents in 2026, with a total of 7 plans available across the county's zip codes including 28902, 28904, 28905, 28906, and 28909. Blue Cross NC offers HMO, HMO-POS, Part D prescription drug, and D-SNP plan types, giving Clay County seniors a range of structures to choose from depending on their coverage priorities. The Blue Cross NC network in this region connects enrollees to local and regional health systems including Murphy Medical Center and Mission Health HCA, as well as hospitals like Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital, Angel Medical Center in Franklin, and Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva. Plan selection directly affects whether Clay County seniors can access specialists at Haywood Regional Medical Center in Clyde, Highlands-Cashiers Hospital, or Swain Community Hospital in Bryson City without higher out-of-pocket costs, making carrier network review essential before enrollment. Health Plans of NC licensed agents compare every Blue Cross NC Medicare plan available in Clay County side by side at no cost, ensuring residents choose coverage that works with their existing providers and prescription needs.
Blue Cross NC, offers Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO-POS, Part D PDP, and D-SNP plans, 7 total plans available in Clay County for 2026.
Clay County residents with limited income may qualify for Extra Help, also known as the Low Income Subsidy, which can reduce or eliminate Part D prescription drug plan costs for eligible Medicare beneficiaries. Medicare Savings Programs administered through NC Medicaid can cover Part B premiums and other cost-sharing expenses for qualifying Clay County seniors, providing meaningful financial relief for those on fixed incomes. Clay County residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid are eligible for the Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP, a Dual Special Needs Plan that coordinates benefits across both programs and reduces out-of-pocket exposure. With an uninsured rate of 15.3% and a poverty rate of 13.5% in Clay County, these assistance programs are especially important, and Health Plans of NC checks eligibility for every available program at no cost during the enrollment process.
Extra Help and Low Income Subsidy programs can reduce Part D drug plan costs to near $0 for Clay County residents who meet income and asset requirements.
Medicare Savings Programs can pay some or all of the Part B premium for qualifying Clay County seniors, reducing monthly out-of-pocket costs significantly.
The Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP is available for Clay County residents who are enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid, offering coordinated, low-cost coverage through Blue Cross NC.
NC Medicaid may provide additional health coverage for low-income Clay County residents who do not yet qualify for Medicare or need supplemental assistance.
Health Plans of NC agents check eligibility for Extra Help, Medicare Savings Programs, and D-SNP enrollment at no cost to Clay County residents during any plan consultation.
Health Plans of NC licensed agents serve Clay County residents at no cost, comparing every available Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement, and Part D plan side by side and guiding beneficiaries through enrollment and annual plan changes. Call 800-797-0327 to speak with a local agent who understands the providers, hospitals, and health systems serving Hayesville and the surrounding Clay County communities.
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 Clay County
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.
Hospital | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
Angel Medical Ctr | 124 One Center Ct, Franklin, NC 28734 | (828) 524-8411 |
Cherokee Indian Hospital | 1 Hospital Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719 | (828) 497-9163 |
Erlanger Western Carolina Hosp | 3990 E US 64 Alt, Murphy, NC 28906 | (828) 837-8161 |
Harris Regional Hospital | 68 Hospital Rd, Sylva, NC 28779 | (828) 586-7000 |
Haywood Regional Medical Ctr | 262 Leroy George Dr, Clyde, NC 28721 | (828) 456-7311 |
Highlands-Cashiers Hospital | 190 Hospital Dr, Highlands, NC 28741 | (828) 526-1200 |
Swain Community Hospital | 45 Plateau St # 230, Bryson City, NC 28713 | (828) 488-2155 |
Transylvania Regional Hospital | 260 Hospital Dr, Brevard, NC 28712 | (828) 884-9111 |
Unity Healing Ctr | 448 Sequoyah Trl, Cherokee, NC 28719 | (828) 497-1800 |
Clinic | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
Angel Medical Ctr | 56 Medical Park Dr, Franklin, NC 28734 | (828) 542-8411 |
Asheville Cardiology Assoc | 190 Hospital Dr # 104, Highlands, NC 28741 | (828) 274-6000 |
Atlanta Gastroenterology Assoc | 145 Medical Park Ln # K, Murphy, NC 28906 | (404) 257-9000 |
Center For Family Medicine | 55 Holly Springs Park Dr, Franklin, NC 28734 | (828) 349-3550 |
Haywood Regional Medical Ctr | , Waynesville, NC 28786 | (828) 452-8070 |
Mission Community Primary Care | 57 White Owl Ln, Cashiers, NC 28717 | (828) 743-2491 |
Mission Health Ctr Highlands | 190 Hospital Dr, Highlands, NC 28741 | (828) 526-4942 |
Mission Urology-Brevard | 89 Hospital Dr # C, Brevard, NC 28712 | (828) 883-5858 |
Murphy Medical Ctr Emergency | 3990 E US 64 Alt, Murphy, NC 28906 | (828) 837-8300 |
Murphy Medical Ctr Human RSRCS | , Murphy, NC 28906 | (828) 835-7683 |
Murphy Medical Ctr Radiology | 3990 E US 64 Alt, Murphy, NC 28906 | (828) 835-7540 |
Murphy Medical Ctr | 3990 E US Highway 64 Alternate, Murphy, NC 28906 | (828) 835-7502 |
Murphy Medical Ctr | 4130 115 Highway 64 E, Murphy, NC 28906 | (828) 835-7505 |
Orthopedics-Sports Medicine | 190 Riverview St, Franklin, NC 28734 | (828) 349-8260 |
Ozarks Medical Ctr | PO Box 330, Marble, NC 28905 | (417) 257-5802 |
Primary Care Franklin | 190 Riverview St, Franklin, NC 28734 | (828) 349-6800 |
VA Medical Ctr | 45 HI Lane St, Canton, NC 28716 | (828) 298-7911 |
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
Clay County ZIP Codes include: 28902, 28904, and 28909
