Last updated: July 1, 2026

If you’ve been notified that you’re eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to changes to the UnitedHealthcare® provider network, you may be able to change your current coverage now through August 31, 2026. If you’re unsure if you’re eligible, please call the number on the back of your UnitedHealthcare member ID card. Eligibility is determined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Your doctor is at the heart of your healthcare experience

We understand how much your relationship with your doctor means to you. It’s why we have the state’s most expansive Medicare Advantage network—to help our members access the care they need from the people they trust. With more than 12,000 providers (and ALL Rhode Island hospitals) in our network, there’s a good chance your current doctors are in our network.

To switch to a BCBSRI Medicare Advantage plan:

  1. Make sure your providers are in our network
    You can use our provider finder to search by name, location, or specialty—just be sure to keep BlueCHiP for Medicare (All Plans) selected in the plan dropdown.
  2. Make sure your medications are covered in our formulary
    Review our prescription coverage and pharmacies to learn more.
  3. Find the plan that’s right for you
    Answer a few quick questions and our plan recommendation tool will suggest Medicare Advantage plans that could fit your needs. If you’re looking for a Medicare Supplement plan, explore our Plan 65 options.
  4. Call 1-800-MEDICARE to enroll before August 31
    You are required to call 1-800-MEDICARE to enroll using this SEP. We cannot accept applications submitted via the “Apply now” button on our website.

Prepare for your call to Medicare by having the following items handy:

  • Your red, white, and blue Medicare ID card
  • Your current UnitedHealthcare plan information
  • The name of the BCBSRI plan you’d like to enroll in

Important! Enrollments using this SEP must be submitted through Medicare directly.

Questions about BCBSRI coverage and benefits?