Central Health Medicare Plan (Central Health) has announced its expansion into five Northern California counties starting January 2023.

The announcement from Bright Healthcare California President Shawn Dewers includes Alameda, Contra Costa, San Joaquin, Santa Clara and Fresno counties as the regions receiving expanded coverage.

Central Health has earned the Senior Choice Gold Award by independent research firm HealthMetrix three consecutive years, recognizing the carrier’s exceptional member value compared to competing healthcare providers.

“We are delighted to announce our expansion into more Northern California markets where we will be able to introduce our award-winning plans and services to those who are Medicare eligible,” Dewers said. “Earning the highly coveted 2023 Senior Choice Gold Award for the third year in a row is indicative of the commitment we have towards our members.”

Central Health offers plans with $0 premiums and $0 generic drugs and $0 copays for select insulins, with annual Medicare Part B rebates of up to $1,500 in many counties, as well as other patient benefits.

Dewers praised Central Health’s connection to the communities they serve.

“California has a rich and diverse population that includes large numbers of Spanish, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese speaking residents,” he said. “We make it our mission to understand each community and employ a staff of in-house multilingual experts who understand the cultural sensitivities of its diverse members so that we can best serve them.”

Central Health Medicare Plan is an HMO health plan contracted by Medicare.