FirstMedicare Direct to Exit Medicare Advantage Market, Impacting 6,000 Members

FirstMedicare Direct, a health insurance provider with strong ties to Moore County and FirstHealth, is scheduled to cease operations by the end of 2025.

This closure will impact approximately 6,000 members who currently hold Medicare Advantage plans with the company. The plan termination is set for December 31, 2025, requiring affected members to seek alternative Medicare Advantage coverage options. The shutdown underscores shifts and potential consolidation pressures within the Medicare Advantage market, affecting both local providers and beneficiaries.

This development signals a need for careful regulatory oversight and communication to ensure continuity of coverage for displaced members. With Medicare Advantage plans being a significant segment for insurers, this closure also highlights challenges insurers face in regional markets, especially those closely linked with local healthcare systems.