Healthcare News & Blog

Affordable Care Act

Business team standing together
Individual/Family, Affordable Care Act

Benefits of Using a Health Insurance Agent or Broker

Health insurance agents save time, find affordable quotes, and provide expert guidance on plans like Medicare, Marketplace, or private coverage—tailored to your needs in North Carolina. Contact Health Plans of NC for personalized help!
HealthPlans of NC

Greensboro skyline
Blue Cross NC, Medicare, Individual/Family, Affordable Care Act

Greensboro, NC: Facilities and the Advantages of Blue Cross NC

Greensboro, North Carolina, boasts comprehensive healthcare with hospitals like Moses H. Cone Memorial, primary care clinics such as Eagle Physicians and Guilford Medical Associates, specialized centers for cancer, heart, and orthopedics, mental health services, and senior facilities including Friends Homes at Guilford. Medicare support features tailored clinics and retirement communities. Blue Cross NC offers extensive coverage, preventive care, member perks, nationwide access, and cost savings.
HealthPlans of NC

Older couple using a tablet together at home
Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family, Medicare

What Is a Fiduciary Health Insurance Agent?

A fiduciary health insurance agent prioritizes your best interests, offering transparent, tailored advice on ACA, Medicare, or group plans. Legally bound to disclose conflicts and recommend optimal coverage, they ensure cost-effective, comprehensive solutions, distinguishing them from agents who may push suitable but not ideal plans.
HealthPlans of NC

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Group, Affordable Care Act, CHOICE Arrangements

ICHRAs (Now CHOICE Arrangements): Transforming Employee Health Benefits

In September 2026, CMS and the SBA renamed the ICHRA the CHOICE Arrangement. The rules haven't changed, so you'll still see both names used.
CHOICE Arrangements—formerly called Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs)—are transforming how employers provide health benefits, offering a flexible, scalable alternative to traditional group health insurance. Introduced as ICHRAs in 2020 under regulations from the Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and Treasury, CHOICE Arrangements allow businesses of all sizes to reimburse employees for individual health insurance premiums and qualified medical expenses.
What is a CHOICE Arrangement?
HealthPlans of NC

Group of smiling coworkers standing in an office
Group, Affordable Care Act, CHOICE Arrangements

QSEHRAs: A Growing Trend for Small Employers

QSEHRAs are surging in popularity among small employers with fewer than 50 employees. These tax-advantaged plans reimburse workers for individual health insurance and medical expenses, offering cost predictability, employee flexibility, and simplified administration.
HealthPlans of NC

Five professionally dressed people smiling in an office hallway
Blue Cross NC, Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family, Medicare

AI-Powered, Agent-Driven: Why Human Expertise Still Leads Health Insurance Enrollment

As technology reshapes industries, many wonder how artificial intelligence (AI) will impact the enrollment process for health insurance. At Health Plans of NC, we understand the concerns some agents and clients have about AI-driven tools potentially replacing the personalized service our team provides. However, we believe the future is bright for both our clients and our dedicated agents in North Carolina. Here’s why human expertise remains irreplaceable, even as AI enhances the enrollment process.
AI: A Tool, Not a Replacement
AI is making waves in the health insurance industry, streamlining tasks such as answering basic questions, comparing plan options, and processing applications. For example, chatbots can quickly explain deductibles, and algorithms can suggest plans based on a client’s budget and health needs. These tools are efficient, available 24/7, and appealing to tech-savvy consumers who value speed.
HealthPlans of NC

Charlotte - North Carolina, North Carolina - US State, Downtown District, Urban Skyline, Financial District
Health, Blue Cross NC, Affordable Care Act, Medicare, Individual/Family

Access to Healthcare Providers with Blue Cross NC in Charlotte

This article explores the extensive provider access available through Blue Cross NC in Charlotte, North Carolina. It highlights the robust network of doctors, specialists, and hospitals available to members enrolled in ACA, Medicare HMO, and PPO plans. The article also explains how to find in-network providers, the benefits of telehealth, and tools like the member portal that help members manage their care. Whether you're new to the area or comparing plan options, Blue Cross NC offers comprehensive healthcare coverage for individuals and families across Charlotte.
HealthPlans of NC

Older woman using a smartphone at her desk
Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family, Group

2026 HSA Contribution Limits and Deductibles: What You Need to Know

IRS announces 2026 HSA limits: $4,400 for self-only (+$100) and $8,750 for family (+$200). Minimum deductibles rise to $1,700 (self) and $3,400 (family), with out-of-pocket caps at $8,500 and $17,000. North Carolinians, maximize tax-free savings with Health Plans of NC. Contact us for HSA guidance!
HealthPlans of NC

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Short Term, Health, Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family

Child-Only Health Insurance in North Carolina: Options, Costs, and How to Enroll in 2026

Complete guide to child-only health insurance in NC for 2026. Compare NC Health Choice, Medicaid, and ACA marketplace options. Understand income limits, coverage benefits, and enrollment requirements.
HealthPlans of NC

Pretty focused businesswoman sitting at desk holding cellular talking with client holding pen note on notepad
Health, Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family, Medicare

Licensed Health Insurance Agents Vs. Marketplace Navigators: Which Should You Choose?

Understand the key differences between licensed health insurance agents and Marketplace Navigators to make an informed decision about who can best help you enroll in health coverage. This comprehensive comparison explores qualifications, training, services, and scope of support from each option. Learn when a licensed agent's personalized recommendations and ongoing support might be valuable, and when a Navigator's specialized Marketplace expertise and community-based assistance could be the right fit. Discover what services each can provide—from subsidy calculations and plan comparisons to post-enrollment support—and get practical guidance on choosing the assistance that matches your needs, preferences, and insurance goals. Both options are completely free to consumers.
HealthPlans of NC

Health Plans of NC Staff

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