Live Worry-Free. Find the Right Medicare Plan in NC. in Columbus County
North Carolina
in North Carolina
Health Plans of NC helps Columbus County, NC residents compare all 8 available Medicare plans from Blue Cross NC for 2026, including options from Columbus Regional Healthcare System, at absolutely no cost and with no pressure.
Columbus County, NC has approximately 10,000 Medicare-eligible residents, representing 20.4% of the county's total population of 50,453, making access to quality Medicare coverage a critical priority for the community. Columbus Regional Healthcare System at 500 Jefferson St in Whiteville accepts Medicare and provides a broad range of inpatient and outpatient services to seniors across the region. For those needing care beyond Columbus County, nearby regional facilities such as New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington and Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton also serve Medicare beneficiaries depending on plan type selected.
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 | $47.00/month |
Blue Medicare PPO Enhanced | PPO | $53.00/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 are available in Columbus County and often center their networks around Columbus Regional Healthcare System in Whiteville for primary and specialty care.
Medicare Advantage HMO-POS plans offer Columbus County seniors some flexibility to seek care outside the network, including access to contracted providers near Columbus Regional Healthcare System.
Medicare Advantage PPO plans allow Columbus County residents to visit a broader range of providers, including larger regional hospitals such as Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center in Bolivia.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are available in Columbus County and allow seniors to use any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide, including specialists at New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington.
Part D Prescription Drug Plans are available as standalone coverage for Columbus County residents who enroll in Original Medicare or a Medicare Supplement plan and need help covering medication costs at local pharmacies.
Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) are available for Columbus County residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, offering coordinated benefits through Columbus Regional Healthcare System and affiliated providers.
Blue Cross NC offers 8 Medicare plans in Columbus County for 2026, including Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO-POS, and PPO options, a standalone Part D prescription drug plan, and a Dual Special Needs Plan for dual-eligible residents. Several plans carry $0 monthly premiums, while others include additional benefits at a modest cost, all built around provider networks that include Columbus Regional Healthcare System and nearby contracted facilities. Health Plans of NC agents walk Columbus County residents through each plan's network details, drug formularies, and benefit structures to identify the best fit for their individual healthcare needs.
Blue Medicare Medical Only, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, provides Medicare Advantage coverage centered on Columbus Regional Healthcare System and contracted outpatient providers in the Whiteville area.
Blue Medicare Essential, HMO, $0.00 per month, offers a $0 premium Medicare Advantage option with an HMO network that includes Columbus Regional Healthcare System for primary and specialty services.
Blue Medicare Essential Plus, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, combines $0 premium Medicare Advantage coverage with HMO-POS flexibility for Columbus County residents who occasionally need care outside the primary network.
Blue Medicare Enhanced, HMO-POS, $47.00 per month, provides enhanced Medicare Advantage benefits at a modest premium for Columbus County seniors seeking additional coverage features through Columbus Regional Healthcare System.
Blue Medicare PPO Enhanced, PPO, $53.00 per month, gives Columbus County residents the broadest Medicare Advantage network access, including potential access to Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center in Bolivia and New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington.
Blue Medicare Freedom+, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, offers a $0 premium HMO-POS Medicare Advantage plan for Columbus County seniors who want flexibility while keeping costs low through Columbus Regional Healthcare System.
Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, is a Dual Special Needs Plan designed for Columbus County residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, coordinating benefits through local and regional providers.
Blue Medicare Rx Enhanced PDP, standalone Part D Prescription Drug Plan, $163.20 per month, provides comprehensive drug coverage for Columbus County residents enrolled in Original Medicare or a Medicare Supplement plan at local pharmacies.
In 2026, Medicare Advantage plan premiums in Columbus County range from $0.00 per month for plans such as Blue Medicare Medical Only, Blue Medicare Essential, Blue Medicare Essential Plus, Blue Medicare Freedom+, and Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP, up to $47.00 per month for Blue Medicare Enhanced and $53.00 per month for Blue Medicare PPO Enhanced, while the standalone Blue Medicare Rx Enhanced PDP carries a monthly premium of $163.20. Columbus County's median household income of $48,184 means that even modest monthly premiums can represent a significant portion of a senior's fixed budget, making it important to review all available cost-reduction programs before selecting a plan. Health Plans of NC agents help Columbus County residents identify the combination of plan features and financial assistance that results in the most affordable and comprehensive coverage for their individual situation.
Part A: $0 premium for most Columbus 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 serving Columbus County for 2026, offering a total of 8 plans across multiple plan types for the county's Medicare-eligible residents. Those plan types include Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO-POS, and PPO options, a Dual Special Needs Plan for dual-eligible residents, and a standalone Part D Prescription Drug Plan, giving Columbus County seniors a range of structures to consider based on their healthcare priorities. Blue Cross NC builds its carrier networks around local facilities including Columbus Regional Healthcare System in Whiteville, meaning plan selection directly determines whether enrollees can access that hospital and its affiliated outpatient clinics without additional cost-sharing burdens. Choosing the right plan also affects a Columbus County senior's ability to use larger regional systems such as Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center in Bolivia, Southeastern Regional Medical Center in Lumberton, or New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, depending on whether those facilities fall within the selected plan's contracted network. Health Plans of NC compares every available Blue Cross NC Medicare plan side by side at no cost to the beneficiary, walking Columbus County seniors through premium differences, network details, and drug formularies.
Blue Cross NC, Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO-POS, PPO, D-SNP, and standalone Part D Prescription Drug Plan options, 8 total Medicare plans available in Columbus County for 2026.
Columbus County residents with limited income and resources may qualify for the Extra Help program, also known as the Low Income Subsidy, which can reduce Part D prescription drug costs to near $0 for eligible seniors. Medicare Savings Programs are available to help qualifying Columbus County residents have their Part B premiums covered entirely by the state, providing meaningful relief for those on fixed incomes. Columbus County's uninsured rate of 13.6% and poverty rate of 18.8% highlight the importance of reviewing all available financial assistance programs, including the Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP for residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. Health Plans of NC agents check eligibility for every available assistance program at no cost to the beneficiary and guide Columbus County seniors through the enrollment process from start to finish.
Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy) can reduce or eliminate Part D prescription drug plan premiums and copayments for eligible Columbus County residents with limited income and resources.
Medicare Savings Programs may cover Part B premiums entirely for qualifying Columbus County seniors, significantly reducing monthly out-of-pocket Medicare costs.
The Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP is available at $0 per month for Columbus County residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, offering coordinated benefits through a single plan.
NC Medicaid may provide additional coverage for low-income Columbus County residents who do not yet qualify for Medicare, or who need supplemental assistance beyond Medicare coverage.
Health Plans of NC licensed agents help Columbus County residents apply for Extra Help, Medicare Savings Programs, and D-SNP eligibility at no cost and with no obligation to enroll.
Health Plans of NC licensed agents serve Columbus County residents at no cost, comparing every available Medicare plan side by side and assisting with enrollment, plan changes, and financial assistance applications throughout the year. Call 800-797-0327 to speak with a local agent who understands Columbus County's Medicare options and can help you find the coverage that best fits your providers, prescriptions, and budget.
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 Columbus 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 |
|---|---|---|
Brynn Marr Hospital | 192 Village Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28546 | (910) 577-1400 |
Cape Fear Vly Bladen County | 501 S Poplar St, Elizabethtown, NC 28337 | (910) 862-5100 |
Columbus Regional Healthcare | 500 Jefferson St, Whiteville, NC 28472 | (910) 642-8011 |
Dosher Memorial Hospital | 924 N Howe St, Southport, NC 28461 | (910) 457-3800 |
ECU Health Duplin Hospital | 401 N Main St, Kenansville, NC 28349 | (910) 296-0941 |
Naval Medical Ctr Camp Lejeune | 100 Brewster Blvd, Camp Lejeune, NC 28547 | (910) 450-4357 |
New Hanover Regional Med Ctr | 2131 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28401 | (910) 667-7000 |
New Hanover Regl Med Ctr-Rehab | 2131 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28401 | (910) 667-7835 |
NHRMC Betty H Cameron Women's | 2131 S 17th St, Wilmington, NC 28401 | (910) 667-7360 |
Novant Health Brunswick Med | 240 Hospital Dr NE, Bolivia, NC 28422 | (910) 721-1000 |
Novant Health New Hanover | 5301 Wrightsville Ave, Wilmington, NC 28403 | (910) 667-8100 |
Onslow Memorial Hospital | 317 Western Blvd, Jacksonville, NC 28546 | (910) 577-2345 |
Pender Memorial Hospital | 507 E Fremont St, Burgaw, NC 28425 | (910) 259-5451 |
Sampson Regional Medical Ctr | 607 Beaman St, Clinton, NC 28328 | (910) 592-8511 |
Southeastern Regional Med Ctr | 300 W 27th St, Lumberton, NC 28358 | (910) 671-5000 |
UNC Health Southeastern | 4300 Fayetteville Rd, Lumberton, NC 28358 | (910) 608-3078 |
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
Columbus County ZIP Codes include: 28423, 28424, 28430, 28431, 28432, 28436, 28438, 28439, 28442, 28450, 28455, 28456, 28463, and 28472
