5 Things Raleigh–Durham Seniors Should Know Before Medicare Open Enrollment 2025

Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is coming up soon — October 15 to December 7, 2025. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can make changes to their health and drug coverage for the following year.

If you live in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, or Chapel Hill, here are five important things to know before making your decision.

1. You Can Switch or Add Medicare Advantage Plans

• AEP is when you can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C).

• Plans change every year, and 2025 is no exception. Benefits, premiums, and especially provider networks (which doctors and hospitals are included) may look different.

• In the Triangle, many seniors want to be sure their Duke Health or UNC providers remain in-network — reviewing this is essential.

2. Prescription Drug Coverage Deserves a Fresh Look

• If you have a Medicare Part D drug plan, the formulary (drug list) may change for 2025.

• Even if your prescriptions stay covered, copays can shift or preferred pharmacies can change.

• In Raleigh and Durham, common concerns are whether CVS, Walgreens, or local independents remain in-network. Reviewing your drug list with a local advisor can prevent costly surprises.

3. Medigap (Supplement) Plans Aren’t Part of AEP — But It’s Still a Good Checkpoint

• Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plans don’t follow the same AEP rules as Advantage and Part D. You can apply year-round, but underwriting often applies.

• AEP is still a smart time to review if your Medigap + Part D combo is more cost-effective than an Advantage plan for 2025.

• This is especially true in North Carolina, where Medigap Plan G and N remain popular.

4. Extra Benefits Are Expanding — But Compare Carefully

• Many Advantage plans in North Carolina now advertise dental, vision, hearing, fitness, and even grocery allowances.

• These benefits sound appealing, but the value depends on whether you’ll actually use them.

• Ask: “Do these perks matter more than my monthly premium and provider access?” Local seniors often prioritize keeping their specialists at Duke, UNC, or WakeMed.

5. Work With a Local, Independent Advisor

• Medicare can be confusing, and national hotlines or commercials don’t know your local doctor networks.

• A local advisor in Durham or Raleigh can compare multiple carriers (like Aetna, Humana, Cigna, WellCare, and UnitedHealthcare) to find the plan that fits your healthcare needs and budget.

• Best of all — consultations are free and no-obligation.

Medicare Open Enrollment runs October 15 – December 7, 2025.

Don’t wait until the last minute. Review your doctors, prescriptions, and plan benefits now so you can make an informed decision.

Palmetto Medicare Advisors, based in Durham and serving Raleigh, Cary, and Chapel Hill, offers independent, local guidance. Call (919) 897-7198 or request a free consultation today.

FAQ

Q: When is Medicare Open Enrollment for 2025?
A: October 15 – December 7, 2025.

Q: Can I change from Medicare Advantage to Medigap during AEP?
A: You can leave an Advantage plan, but Medigap applications may require underwriting in North Carolina.

Q: What’s the biggest mistake people make during AEP?
A: Not checking whether their doctors and prescriptions are still covered for the new year.