New Hampshire residents who qualify for Medicare can choose from various healthcare plans, as Medicare operates similarly in the state as it does across the country. Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Part D prescription medication programs, and Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) are the primary choices.
Medicare in New Hampshire
People can select a plan according to their budget, doctor preferences, and health requirements, as each plan provides a number of benefits. In this article we will provide complete details regarding Medicare in New Hampshire, including its eligibility, advantage plans, and prescription drug coverage.
Medicare New Hampshire Eligibility Criteria
- The majority of people qualify for Medicare at age 65, but some may be eligible earlier if they have a disability or other medical conditions.
- Your Initial Enrollment Period is a 7 month window that start 3 months before you turn 65.
- Every year, from 15th October to 7th December, there is an Open Enrollment Period during which you can join, change, or update your plan.
- You can enroll during the General Enrolment Period, which starts from 1st January to 31st March, if you were unable to complete your first registration.
- You may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period to make changes outside of regular periods if your circumstances change.
- You can choose to change your coverage if you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan between 1st January to 31st March 2025.
What Original Medicare Covers
The two components of original Medicare are Part A, which covers hospital care, nursing homes, and certain home health care, and Part B, which covers checkups, doctor visits, and medical equipment. However, prescription medications, dental care, vision, and hearing are not covered under Original Medicare. Due to this , many choose to include additional plans, such as Medigap to cover additional costs or Part D for medication coverage.
Medicare Advantage Plans in New Hampshire
Medicare Advantage plans (also called Part C) are another choice, which was provided by private insurance companies and include everything that Original Medicare covers. In 2025, New Hampshire offers 42 Medicare Advantage plans, many of which include extra benefits like prescription drugs, dental, and hearing coverage.
The average monthly cost is roughly $18.81, but some of them are free. While certain Aetna plans received 4.5 stars in 2025, UnitedHealthcare’s plan for nursing home residents received a 5-star rating.
Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
People who choose Original Medicare and need help paying for their medications can add a Part D medication plan, which is provided by private insurance companies. In 2025, In 2024, New Hampshire offered 16 different Medicare Part D plans, with an average monthly cost of about $41.29, though prices may vary depending on the plan and location.
Medigap and Local Help
Medigap plans have the goal of enhancing Original Medicare by providing help with certain personal expenses that are not entirely covered, such as coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles. People can contact ServiceLink, a free New Hampshire resource that provides Medicare users objective support, or visit the official website for free Medicare help and information. The SSA can help with applications for Extra Help and other savings programs, as well as Medicare registration.
FAQs
What is the enrollment period for Medicare plans in New Hampshire?
You can enroll during the Initial Enrollment Period, Open Enrollment (15th October to 7th December), or other special periods.
Is prescription drug coverage included in Original Medicare?
No, you need to get a separate Part D plan to cover prescription drugs.
How much do Medicare Advantage plans typically cost in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, Medicare Advantage plans cost about $18.81 per month on average, with some plans available for $0.