2027 Medicare Advantage coverage update
With the onset of Medicare open enrollment on Oct. 15, some insurance companies have decided to no longer offer their Medicare Advantage plans in Pend Oreille County.
Newport Hospital & Health Services is concerned about the uncertainty this creates for our patients and the community.
Like many local residents, NHHS recently learned that insurance companies are pulling out of Pend Oreille County. We are working to understand the impact and identify the best available options for 2027. Between now and when Open Enrollment ends on Dec. 7, we will continue to monitor the situation and update this page as additional information becomes available.
FAQs
What control does NHHS have over the insurance plans offered in the area?
Insurance companies independently choose whether to offer their plans in any given county. Once a plan is offered in the county, NHHS may then work on gaining a contract with that company. Currently, only one insurance company is offering a Medicare Advantage Plan in Pend Oreille County in 2027. (See Medicare Advantage in the question below.)
What Medicare coverage options are available in Pend Oreille County in 2027?
Residents affected by these changes may want to review the following options:
- Original Medicare: Residents may be able to return to original Medicare and explore a Medicare Supplement policy and separate prescription drug coverage.
- Medicare Advantage: Humana is currently the only Medicare Advantage plan being offered in Pend Oreille County for 2027. NHHS is not currently contracted with Humana but has reached out to explore an agreement.
- D-SNP: Certain Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) will continue to be available for eligible individuals. Be sure to verify provider network participation before enrolling.
Where can residents get help reviewing their options?
Several resources can help Medicare beneficiaries understand their choices and make informed coverage decisions:
- Medicare: Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or visit Medicare.gov.
- Washington State SHIBA: The Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors program provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling. Visit Insurance.wa.gov/SHIBA to learn more.
- Licensed insurance broker: A local licensed broker can help residents compare available plans. Residents should understand which plans the broker represents and which options are available to them.
Anyone considering a change in coverage, particularly a Medicare Supplement policy, should confirm eligibility and enrollment rights and requirements before making a decision.
How do I know if my plan will be accepted at NHHS?
With questions or to confirm whether your 2027 Medicare plan will be accepted at NHHS, contact our Patient Financial Services team at 509-447-6388.
For more information about all things Medicare, register for Medicare 101, which will be held at 10 a.m. Oct. 28 at Newport Community Hospital.
