The Local Health Landscape
Merced County's growing Medicare population centers on a single Dignity Health hub with UC-affiliated care expanding alongside UC Merced.
Hospitals Serving Merced County
- Mercy Medical Center Merced (Dignity Health)
Local Access Note
Modesto and Fresno systems bracket the county — plans with multi-county Central Valley networks fit residents who already travel for specialists.
Medicare Plan Types Available in Merced County
Beneficiaries here choose among Medicare Advantage (Part C), standalone Part D drug plans, and Medigap supplements — availability and pricing are zip-code specific.
Find a Medicare Agent in Merced
Licensed Medicare agents serving Merced County can help you compare plans and enroll at no cost to you. They’re familiar with the specific plans available in the Merced area and throughout Merced County.
Find an Agent in Merced County →
Compare Plans in Merced County
Enter your zip code to see Medicare Advantage, Part D, and Medigap plans available in Merced County.
Compare Plans at PlanMatch.com →
Senior Services in Merced County
- HICAP (Free Medicare Counseling): Call 1-800-434-0222 to reach your local Merced County HICAP office
- Area Agency on Aging: Contact your local AAA for senior programs, Meals on Wheels, and transportation assistance
- In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS): Apply through Merced County Department of Social Services
- Medi-Cal: Apply through your county office or at CoveredCA.com
Key Medicare Information
- Medicare Advantage plans — All-in-one coverage, many $0 premium options
- Medigap plans — Supplement Original Medicare, California birthday rule applies
- Part D drug plans — $2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap in 2026
- Medi-Cal dual eligibility — Extra benefits for low-income beneficiaries
- Medicare Savings Programs — Help with premiums and cost-sharing
Merced County Quick Facts
Largest city: Merced
Population: 281K residents
Region: Central Valley
2026 Part B Premium: $202.90/month
Free counseling: HICAP at 1-800-434-0222