As I began researching this article about the impacts of FirstCarolinaCare’s recent decision to discontinue its Medicare Advantage plans at the end of 2025, I recognized the need to consult with an expert. I reached out to Moore County resident and health insurance agency owner Blake Rhodes.
Blake is the proprietor of TrustInsure in Aberdeen and the only brick-and-mortar office in Moore County that exclusively focuses on Medicare. With a reputation for a friendly and consultative approach, Blake’s office in Magnolia Square is a local resource for guidance and navigation for all things related to Medicare.
It is estimated that thousands of Medicare-eligible residents residing in Moore and the surrounding counties will be impacted by FirstCarolinaCare’s recent decision.
Sandhills Sentinel is using this article to help our community better understand what this change means for the FirstCarolinaCare policyholders in Moore County.
We did a Q&A with Blake to provide answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Q: Health insurance is already confusing enough, and losing your coverage can be a frightening experience. What does this recent decision mean for Medicare patients who currently have FirstCarolinaCare?
A: Throughout 2025, FirstMedicare Direct coverage remains unchanged, so please continue using your benefits. Be ready to explore new plan options later in the year. During the 2025 Medicare Open Enrollment (October 15–December 7), review Medicare Advantage plans or traditional Medicare with a Medigap and Part D plan to ensure coverage for 2026. Without choosing a new plan, you may default to traditional Medicare, which may not cover prescriptions or other benefits.
Q: What are the other options available for FirstCarolinaCare policyholders?
A: A common question that I receive: “My neighbor is on an ABC Medicare plan, and it works well for her.” There is no one-size-fits-all for every Medicare beneficiary. We believe in educating individuals on their options upon making a Medicare plan selection, whether it be a different Medicare Advantage plan or Original Medicare with a Medigap and Part D plan.
Q: Will these alternative plans be affordable, and do former policyholders need to worry about which plans they are eligible for?
A: Although 2026 Medicare Advantage plan premiums have not yet been released, North Carolina has historically offered a wide variety of plans, including many with $0 monthly premiums. To enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you must be enrolled in both Medicare Part A and Part B and reside within the plan’s specific service area, as these plans are region-specific.
Alternatively, you may consider a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan, which does come with a monthly premium. The cost will vary depending on the plan you choose and the insurance carrier.
Q: If people want to sit down and discuss their options with you, what would you suggest?
A: I recommend calling 910-994-6464 or visiting our website to schedule a one-on-one consultation at our Aberdeen office. In-home appointments are also available upon request. During your consultation, we’ll take the time to understand your healthcare needs, review your current doctors and medications, and explore the Medicare plans available in your area.
Please note, we are already booking appointments well into the Medicare open enrollment period beginning October 15.
Q: I’m sure many other insurance carriers will be reaching out to FirstCarolinaCare customers. Do you have any recommendations for the community?
A: My advice to the community is to sit down with a licensed, local agent who can help you compare all of your options, not just those from a single company. We’re not the only agency in the area offering this service, and we encourage people to explore their choices. While there’s a lot of information online about how to receive your Medicare benefits, much of it can be biased or one-sided. Our approach is centered on education, providing you with the knowledge and clarity you need to make a confident and informed decision that’s right for you.
~ Written by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Maggie Sergio. A resident of Moore and Richmond counties since 2016, Maggie was one of the first reporters for Sandhills Sentinel. She started covering local stories for Sandhills Sentinel in 2018 and has rejoined the reporting staff. Maggie previously contributed to the Huffington Post, covering social and environmental justice issues. Maggie is an accomplished grant writer, having secured funding for several nonprofit organizations.
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