Live Worry-Free. Find the Right Medicare Plan in NC. in Swain County
North Carolina
in North Carolina
Swain County, NC residents have access to 8 Medicare plans for 2026, and Health Plans of NC helps locals compare every option at no cost, with coverage supported by Swain Community Hospital in Bryson City and Mission Health HCA facilities across the region.
Swain County is home to approximately 3,000 Medicare-eligible residents, representing 19.7% of the county's total population of 14,065, and those residents have access to multiple Medicare coverage types for 2026. Local health systems including Swain Community Hospital in Bryson City and Mission Health HCA facilities across Western NC accept Medicare, giving seniors meaningful access to care close to home. Coverage options range from Medicare Advantage plans that bundle hospital and medical benefits to standalone Part D drug plans and Medigap policies that supplement Original Medicare.
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 Swain County and may include coordinated care through local providers connected to Swain Community Hospital in Bryson City.
Medicare Advantage HMO-POS plans offer Swain County residents some flexibility to seek care outside the primary network, useful when accessing Mission Health HCA facilities across the region.
Medicare Advantage PPO plans in Swain County allow broader provider access across Western NC, including regional hospitals and specialist offices beyond the immediate area.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans work alongside Original Medicare and are accepted at Swain Community Hospital, Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva, Cherokee Indian Hospital in Cherokee, and any Medicare-participating provider nationwide.
Part D Prescription Drug Plans are available as standalone coverage for Swain County residents who choose Original Medicare or a Medigap plan and need separate drug benefits.
Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) are available in Swain County for residents who qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, providing coordinated benefits through local and regional health systems.
Blue Cross NC offers eight Medicare plans in Swain County for 2026, spanning HMO, HMO-POS, PPO, PDP, and D-SNP plan types to address the varied healthcare needs of local seniors. Several plans carry a $0 monthly premium beyond the required Part B cost, while others offer enhanced benefits at a modest additional premium, and each plan connects enrollees to a defined network of providers across Western NC. Swain County residents should verify that their preferred facilities, including Swain Community Hospital in Bryson City and regional hospitals in Sylva and Cherokee, participate in the network of any plan they are considering.
Blue Medicare Medical Only, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, provides hospital and medical coverage with access to an HMO-POS network that may include Swain Community Hospital in Bryson City.
Blue Medicare Essential, HMO, $0.00 per month, bundles hospital and medical benefits into a structured HMO network serving Swain County and surrounding Western NC communities.
Blue Medicare Essential Plus, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, adds HMO-POS flexibility to core Medicare Advantage benefits, allowing some out-of-network access for Swain County residents who visit regional facilities.
Blue Medicare Enhanced, HMO-POS, $47.00 per month, offers an elevated benefit tier with HMO-POS network access, potentially including additional dental, vision, or hearing coverage for Swain County seniors.
Blue Medicare PPO Enhanced, PPO, $53.00 per month, gives Swain County residents the broadest network access of any Advantage plan available, allowing visits to providers across the region without a referral requirement.
Blue Medicare Freedom+, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, provides a $0 premium HMO-POS option with the ability to access care at both in-network and select out-of-network providers serving the Swain County area.
Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP, HMO-POS, $0.00 per month, is a Dual Special Needs Plan designed for Swain County residents enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid, coordinating benefits across local and regional health systems.
Blue Medicare Rx Enhanced PDP, Prescription Drug Plan, $163.20 per month, is a standalone Part D plan offering prescription drug coverage for Swain County residents who remain on Original Medicare or a Medigap policy.
For 2026, Medicare Advantage plan premiums in Swain County range from $0.00 per month for plans like Blue Medicare Essential and Blue Medicare Freedom+ to $47.00 per month for Blue Medicare Enhanced and $53.00 per month for Blue Medicare PPO Enhanced, with the standalone Blue Medicare Rx Enhanced PDP priced at $163.20 per month. Swain County's median household income of $55,429 means many residents may fall within the income thresholds for cost-reduction programs such as Extra Help, Medicare Savings Programs, or Medicaid, which can substantially lower overall Medicare expenses. Health Plans of NC agents review every available plan against a resident's specific income and benefit needs to identify the lowest total cost option, including any subsidies that could reduce premiums or out-of-pocket costs.
Part A: $0 premium for most Swain 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 sole Medicare carrier offering plans in Swain County for 2026, with a total of 8 plans available to local residents. Those plans span multiple structures including HMO, HMO-POS, PPO, a standalone Prescription Drug Plan, and a Dual Special Needs Plan, giving seniors a range of options suited to different healthcare usage patterns and budgets. Blue Cross NC's carrier networks in Western NC determine which local facilities a beneficiary can use, making it important for Swain County residents to confirm that providers like Swain Community Hospital in Bryson City and facilities within the Mission Health HCA system are included in any plan they select. Plan choice also affects access to specialists at nearby facilities such as Harris Regional Hospital in Sylva, Cherokee Indian Hospital in Cherokee, and Angel Medical Center in Franklin, all of which serve Swain County residents regularly. Health Plans of NC compares every Blue Cross NC Medicare plan available in Swain County side by side at no cost, so residents never have to navigate carrier networks or benefit details alone.
Blue Cross NC, offers Medicare Advantage HMO, HMO-POS, PPO, Dual Special Needs Plan (D-SNP), and Part D Prescription Drug Plans, with 8 total plans available in Swain County for 2026.
Swain County residents with limited income may qualify for Extra Help, also known as the Low Income Subsidy, which can reduce Part D prescription drug costs to near $0 and lower plan premiums significantly. Medicare Savings Programs are available at the state level and can cover the Part B premium entirely for qualifying residents, making Medicare substantially more affordable for those on fixed incomes. Swain County's uninsured rate of 23.2% and poverty rate of 21.1% indicate that a meaningful share of the local population may be eligible for dual enrollment in both Medicare and Medicaid, qualifying them for the Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP plan that coordinates benefits across both programs. Health Plans of NC agents check eligibility for every available assistance program at no cost and help Swain County residents apply without any obligation.
Extra Help and Low Income Subsidy can reduce Part D prescription drug plan costs to near $0 for Swain County residents who meet federal income and resource limits.
Medicare Savings Programs administered through NC Medicaid can cover the monthly Part B premium for qualifying low-income Swain County seniors, eliminating a significant recurring cost.
The Healthy Blue Medicare DSNP is available to Swain County residents enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid, providing coordinated coverage through a single $0 premium plan.
NC Medicaid may provide additional coverage for low-income Swain County residents who do not yet qualify for Medicare or who need benefits beyond what Medicare covers.
Health Plans of NC licensed agents help Swain County residents check eligibility for Extra Help, Medicare Savings Programs, and D-SNP enrollment at no cost and with no pressure.
Health Plans of NC licensed agents serve Swain County residents in Bryson City, Whittier, Almond, and surrounding communities at no cost, comparing every available Medicare plan side by side to help you find the right fit for your health needs, preferred local providers, and budget. Call 800-797-0327 to speak with an agent who can walk you through enrollment, plan changes, and any financial assistance programs you may qualify for, with no obligation.
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 Swain 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
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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
Swain County ZIP Codes include: 28713
