Haywood Regional announced the launch of a toll-free helpline designed to help Medicare beneficiaries select a health plan that fits their needs and budget while also keeping in-network access to the doctors and hospital services they trust.
The new toll-free helpline, run by MedicareCompareUSA, connects callers with local licensed agents who can assist in comparing Medicare Advantage, Supplement and Prescription plans and then facilitate enrollment in the plan selected.
Through this program, it will be easier for Medicare beneficiaries to find a plan that is in-network with Haywood Regional and its affiliated doctors. Patients can access the helpline through a link on the hospital’s website MyHaywoodRegional.com/Medicare or by calling 855-582-5181.


“Seniors are bombarded with confusing messages from competing health plans and options, and this is especially true for those just turning 65 and becoming eligible for Medicare for the first time,” said Rod Harkleroad, CEO, Haywood Regional. “This helpline is a one-stop resource for insurance information, so seniors can be confident in the selections they make.”
In addition to providing assistance throughout the plan application and enrollment process, agents of MedicareCompareUSA can provide an annual review of an enrollee’s Medicare coverage during Medicare’s annual enrollment period.
Doing so assures that beneficiaries have the information they need to proactively select a plan that best meets their specific needs, preferences and budget while retaining continuity of care with their providers.
Harkleroad points out that Haywood Regional is not in-network with all insurance options or health plans, and contractual relationships may change on an annual basis.
If a patient enrolls with a health plan with which Haywood Regional does not have a contract, they may experience increased out-of-pocket expenses for receiving care from the doctors they know and trust.
Haywood Regional Medical Center, a Duke LifePoint Hospital, is located in Haywood County and offers a comprehensive array of services, including orthopedics, spine services, cardiology, general surgery, women's care, emergency medicine, behavioral health and includes 12 multi-specialty physician clinics.