Medicare Advantage Changes in New Hampshire: What Residents Need to Know

Residents of Coos and Carroll counties in New Hampshire were initially informed they would lose access to Medicare Advantage Plans by 2027, but options are expected to be available by November 1, according to Governor Kelly Ayotte.

The announcement comes amidst growing concerns in the region regarding the availability of Medicare Advantage plans. Until recently, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) had not approved any Medicare Advantage plans for Coos County and had only sanctioned a single specialized plan for Carroll County. In response, Governor Ayotte has been engaged in discussions with federal officials at CMS to ensure broader access for beneficiaries. Her efforts highlight a crucial aspect of healthcare policy: maintaining comprehensive coverage in rural areas. "This work will help North Country residents access the coverage and care they need, and we will continue working to protect Granite Staters’ access to healthcare coverage across rural New Hampshire and our entire state," Ayotte stated.

Broader Implications for New Hampshire's Medicare Market

The situation in Coos and Carroll counties is indicative of a wider trend of diminishing Medicare Advantage options across New Hampshire. Notably, both CVS Health and BMC Health Service plans will cease availability in the state, affecting more than 14,200 individuals. This development is the latest in a pattern seen in 2026, when providers like Anthem, Martin’s Point, and Aetna exited the New Hampshire market, impacting approximately 77,000 seniors. Collectively, these changes underscore the ongoing volatility in the state's Medicare Advantage market and pose potential challenges for insurance agents and brokers assisting clients during this tumultuous period.

Key Considerations for Medicare Advantage Enrollees

Given the evolving landscape, the New Hampshire Insurance Department has advised enrollees not to presume the continuation of their existing Medicare Advantage coverage through 2027. The disparity in availability and the shifting nature of options emphasize the importance of reviewing plan details closely during the current open enrollment period, which runs until December 7. This sudden shift presents an opportunity for claims professionals and insurance agencies to educate beneficiaries about potential changes to their healthcare plans, ensuring they make informed choices before the deadline.

• Open enrollment for Medicare began on October 15 and ends on December 7.
• CVS Health and BMC Health Service plans are withdrawing from New Hampshire, affecting over 14,200 individuals.
• Past withdrawals by Anthem, Martin's Point, and Aetna in 2026 impacted roughly 77,000 seniors.