Recent Medicare Advantage Changes in Washington State

If you are currently enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans with Premera Blue Cross or Regence Blue Shield, you should have received a notification from your insurer regarding that these plans are no longer available in Washington State. While Harbor Regional Health cannot advise on specific plan choices, we want you to know that Harbor Regional Health is contracted with Wellcare’s Medicare Advantage program, which is currently the only Medicare Advantage program available in Grays Harbor County.

Next Steps for Those Affected

People enrolled in affected Premera Blue Cross or Regence Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plans will retain coverage through the end of 2024. Open enrollment for 2025 Medicare plans is from October 15 to December 7, 2024, however special enrollment extensions may be available for those affected by the discontinued plans.

Resources for Assistance with Medicare Options

While Harbor Regional Health cannot directly assist with enrolling in Medicare Advantage plans, you may review Medicare options and enroll through Medicare’s website at www.medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

For additional support, the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) program, operated by the Olympic Area Agency on Aging (OAAA), offers free, unbiased Medicare counseling. SHIBA volunteers provide one-on-one assistance without any sales pressure, available by phone or at first-come, first-served locations. You can call SHIBA at 1-800-562-6900 or email them at SHIBA.o3a@dshs.wa.gov. If planning an in-person visit, please call ahead.

Olympic Area Agency on Aging – Aberdeen Office
Toll-free: 800-801-0060
Local: 360-532-0520
Address: 2700 Simpson Avenue, Suite 205, Aberdeen, WA 98520
Hours: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM