Rhode Island has over 240,000 Medicare enrollees for 2025. Original Medicare costs are consistent nationwide, but private insurers offer different Medicare Advantage, Medigap, and Part D plan options depending on your zip code.

In Rhode Island, as in other states, you are eligible for Original Medicare once you turn 65 or sooner if you have certain underlying conditions.

Other than Original Medicare, you have the option to enroll in Part D (prescription drug coverage), Medicare Advantage (an alternative to Original Medicare), and Medigap plans that can help you pay for some of the costs.

Currently, a total of 241,239 residents of Rhode Island are enrolled in Medicare. Read on to learn about your Medicare coverage options in Rhode Island and what they’re expected to cost in 2025.

The costs of Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) are standardized across the United States.

Medicare Part A covers basic healthcare, including inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facilities, home healthcare, and hospice care. Part B provides additional outpatient coverage for things like doctor’s visits, emergency room care, medical equipment, preventive services, mental health services, and lab tests.

Most people don’t pay a premium for Part A, but you need to reach a deductible before Medicare starts to pay. In 2024, this amount has been $1,676.

The premium for Part B is $185 each month or higher, depending on your income, and the deductible is $257. After that Medicare will pay for 80% of your costs.

When it comes to Medicare Advantage and Part D plan costs may vary depending on your zip code. Private insurance companies offer these plans, and according to the latest data, 35 Medicare Advantage plans will be available in Rhode Island in 2025, compared to 24 plans in 2024.

All Rhode Island residents with Medicare have access to a Medicare Advantage plan, including plans with $0 premiums. The average monthly premium in Rhode Island decreased compared to last year—from $29.52 in 2024 to $19.50 in 2025.

Some companies that offer Medicare Advantage plans in Rhode Island are Aetna, Blue Cross & Blue Shield, Lasso Healthcare, UnitedHealthcare, and WellCare. Before enrolling, search to find the best plan for your budget and healthcare needs in your area. You should also be able to find a Medigap to help you pay for the costs of Original Medicare.

All Rhode Island residents with Medicare also have access to any of the 16 Part D (prescription drug coverage) plans available in 2025, with the lowest premium being $6.30. Nationally, the average total Part D premium is expected to decrease from $53.95 in 2024 to $46.50 in 2025.

You will have several opportunities to enroll in Medicare.

You’ll be able to enroll in Medicare Rhode Island during your initial enrollment period, which begins 3 months before your 65th birthday and ends 3 months after your birthday.

You may also enroll during general (January 1 to March 31), open (October 15 to December 7), and special enrollment periods. However, your initial enrollment offers the best chance to avoid penalties and higher fees.

Tips for enrolling in Medicare in Rhode Island

When deciding what Medicare Rhode Island coverage will meet your healthcare needs, you’ll need to consider budget, location, and coverage needs.

Here are some tips for assessing your needs before enrollment:

  • If you are considering a Part C plan, check with your doctor first. Most Medicare Advantage plans in Rhode Island only provide coverage to certain in-network physicians.
  • If you’re considering Part C or D Medicare plans in Rhode Island, list the medications you regularly take. Read the list of covered drugs in each plan you’re considering, and rule out any plans that don’t pay for your medications.
  • Check each plan’s coverage area using your zip code, and rule out any plans that don’t provide coverage in your county.

When looking for more specifics on Medicare plans in Rhode Island, you can contact Medicare or your state agencies directly to seek counseling or clarify coverage.

More than 240,000 Rhode Island residents are enrolled in Medicare, and the costs of Original Medicare are standard across all states.

However, private insurance companies offer various types of Medicare Advantage and Part D plans throughout the state. The costs depend on the plan and your zip code.