50K Vermonters to seek new Medicare coverage as major insurers exit market

MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) — Approximately 50,000 Vermonters are scrambling to find new health care coverage after two major Medicare Advantage plans last week announced their departure from the market.

Blue Cross Blue Shield and UnitedHealth are both leaving Vermont’s individual Medicare Advantage market, forcing thousands of seniors to seek alternative coverage options. The timing coincides with the start of Medicare open enrollment next week, creating additional pressure on state resources.

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The Vermont Association of Area Agencies on Aging is working to help displaced beneficiaries enroll in Medigap or supplemental plans through one-on-o