Changes set in UNC Health Blue Ridge Medicare Advantage plans

Effective Jan. 1, UNC Health and UNC Health Blue Ridge will no longer be in-network with the following Medicare Advantage (MA) plans: Humana, WellCare, and Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC, formerly Cigna).

This change does not affect retirees covered under the North Carolina State Health Plan (SHP).

“Some patients with Humana Medicare Advantage may have received a letter advising them to find a new provider,” said Gary Paxson, president and CEO of UNC Health Blue Ridge.

“That message does not apply to SHP retirees. If you’re covered under the State Health Plan, you will be able to continue seeing UNC Health providers at the same cost.”

State Health Plan members with Humana coverage can continue seeing contracted and non-contracted providers, including UNC Health, with no impact on their out-of-pocket costs.

If you’re enrolled in Humana, WellCare, or HCSC Medicare Advantage (not through SHP), you’ll have UNC Health access through Dec. 31, 2025.

To keep your UNC Health providers in 2026, you can switch to traditional Medicare or choose a different Medicare Advantage plan that includes UNC Health during the annual enrollment period (now through Dec. 7).

There is help available for those losing coverage. UNC Health and UNC Health Blue Ridge have partnered with Chapter, a trusted Medicare advisory service, to offer free, personalized guidance for seniors navigating coverage options.

“Chapter’s licensed advisors are here to help you understand your choices and find a plan that keeps UNC Health Blue Ridge in-network,” Paxson said.

To speak with a Chapter advisor, call 919-421-4476 or toll-free 1-877-230-3239. You can also visit https://askchapter.org/unchealth for additional information and resources.

“We know these changes can be confusing,” Paxson added. “You’re not alone — we’re here to help you stay connected to the care you trust.”