Free Medicare enrollment assistance available in New Hanover County
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — New Hanover County residents can receive free assistance reviewing Medicare coverage options during the program’s Open Enrollment Period, which runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7.
The county’s Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) recommends that Medicare participants review their coverage options for 2027. Medicare Part D prescription drug plans and Part C Medicare Advantage plans have changed, making it important for beneficiaries to compare plans and costs.
Residents have three ways to receive assistance:
- In person: Certified volunteer counselors are available by appointment at the New Hanover County Senior Resource Center, 2222 South College Road in Wilmington. Call 910-798-6442 to schedule an appointment.
- By phone: Call the North Carolina Department of Insurance SHIIP program at 1-855-408-1212. Assistance is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
- Online: Review coverage options at Medicare.gov.
The county advises residents taking medication multiple times a day to review plan details for quantity limits when comparing prescription drug coverage.
SHIIP provides free, unbiased information about Medicare, prescription drug coverage, Medicare Advantage plans, long-term care insurance and other health insurance issues. The program is sponsored by the New Hanover County Senior Resource Center and the North Carolina Department of Insurance.
SHIIP counselors are not licensed insurance agents and do not sell, endorse or oppose specific insurance products or companies.
