Healthcare News & Stories

Woman in a military uniform and a man at a desk with a laptop and a cup with small American flags
Medicare

Medicare and VA Benefits for Veterans: How They Work Together (2025-2026 Guide)

Veterans can have both Medicare and VA healthcare benefits—and the VA encourages it. Learn how these programs complement each other and how Medicare Advantage can expand your healthcare options beyond the VA system.
HealthPlans of NC

Two couples smiling with a ferris wheel in the background
Medicare

Understanding Medicare: Parts A, B, C, and D Explained (2025-2026 Guide)

Medicare is more valuable than ever, with new benefits like a $2,000 out-of-pocket cap on prescription drugs and negotiated prices on high-cost medications. Here's what you need to know about all four parts of Medicare in 2025-2026.
HealthPlans of NC

Family walking in a field holding hands
Health, Medicare

Allergy Testing and Treatment in North Carolina: Insurance Coverage Guide (2025-2026)

Living with allergies in North Carolina can be challenging—several NC cities rank among the nation's worst for pollen. Here's what triggers allergies in our state, treatment options, and how insurance covers allergy testing and immunotherapy.
HealthPlans of NC

Woman with blood pressure cuff looking at another woman taking her blood pressure
Health

Blood Pressure and Hypertension: Understanding Your Numbers and Insurance Coverage (2025-2026 Guide)

High blood pressure is called the "silent killer" because it often has no symptoms but can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and dementia. Here's what you need to know about monitoring and managing your blood pressure.
HealthPlans of NC

Family with kids and grandparents laughing together
Health, Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family, Medicare

5 Reasons to Work with a Licensed Health Insurance Agent in North Carolina (2026 Guide)

With federal navigator funding cut by 90% for 2026 and major changes coming to ACA subsidies, working with a licensed health insurance agent has never been more important. Here's why a local NC agent can make all the difference.
HealthPlans of NC

Man giving family a grocery bag
Individual/Family, Affordable Care Act

Low-Income Health Insurance Options in North Carolina (2025-2026 Guide)

This guide explains current health insurance options for low-income residents in North Carolina, including NC Medicaid (available year-round), ACA Marketplace enrollment periods, and critical changes coming in 2026. Our licensed agents can help you find affordable coverage.
HealthPlans of NC

Two couples sitting outside
Medicare

10 Important Considerations When Choosing Medicare Plans in North Carolina (2025-2026 Guide)

With over 2.2 million North Carolinians enrolled in Medicare and more than 56% choosing Medicare Advantage, picking the right plan is a major decision. Here are 10 important factors to consider when choosing your Medicare coverage.
HealthPlans of NC

Woman working at a counter in a shared workspace tying on a laptop
Individual/Family, Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family

Health Insurance for Freelancers in North Carolina: Your Complete Guide (2025-2026)

With over 70 million Americans now freelancing and the gig economy representing 36% of the U.S. workforce, finding affordable health insurance is a top concern for independent workers. This guide covers all your coverage options in North Carolina.
HealthPlans of NC

Man and woman talking at a desk
Health, Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family, Medicare

Health Insurance Agent Vs. Navigator: What's the Difference? (2025-2026 Guide)

Both health insurance agents and government navigators can help you enroll in coverage—but they work differently. Here's what you need to know about each option and which may be right for you.
HealthPlans of NC

Two couples taking a selfie on a hiking trail
Medicare

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Medicare Enrollment in North Carolina (2025-2026)

Enrolling in Medicare doesn't have to be complicated. This guide walks you through each step—from signing up for Original Medicare to choosing additional coverage—so you can make informed decisions about your healthcare.
HealthPlans of NC

We resolve to make health care better.
Health, Blue Cross NC

Blue Cross NC Mental Health and Behavioral Health Services

Blue Cross NC members have access to mental health professionals, substance use treatment, crisis services, and telehealth options across all 100 North Carolina counties.
HealthPlans of NC

Via Blue Cross NC By Ish Bhalla

Man reading bills at kitchen counter
Health, Medicare, Individual/Family

How to Read Your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) and Medical Bill

Your EOB shows what your insurance covers and what you owe. Always wait for your EOB before paying a medical bill to avoid overpaying.
HealthPlans of NC

4 people at a desk looking at a laptop
Medicare

Health Insurance Options for Early Retirement in North Carolina

Early retirees face a coverage gap before Medicare eligibility at 65. Here's how to find affordable health insurance during those in-between years.
HealthPlans of NC

Five older people smiling after exercising
Medicare

Who Is Medicare For? Eligibility, Enrollment, and Coverage Start Dates

Understanding Medicare eligibility is the first step toward getting the health coverage you need. Here's who qualifies for Medicare, when to sign up, and what happens if you miss your enrollment window.
HealthPlans of NC

Three coworkers with laptops sitting together at a long table
Health, Individual/Family, Group

How to Handle Health Insurance When Changing Jobs

A job change doesn't have to mean a gap in health coverage. Here's how to transition your health insurance smoothly when switching employers.
HealthPlans of NC

Individual/Family, Affordable Care Act, Medicare

Why Customer Reviews Matter When Choosing a Health Insurance Agent in North Carolina

Online reviews are one of the most trusted sources of information when choosing a health insurance agent. Here's why reviews matter, what to look for, and how they help you find an agent you can trust.
HealthPlans of NC

Happy Mother and Son Enjoying Brushing Teeth Together Against White Background
Dental

Dental Insurance in North Carolina: Coverage Options, Costs, and How to Choose

Dental insurance helps cover routine cleanings, fillings, and major dental work. Here's what you need to know about costs, coverage, and finding the right plan in North Carolina.
HealthPlans of NC

Portrait of Senior Woman with Grey Short Hair in the City District. Older Business Woman with Eyeglasses is Carrying a Briefcase and Talking over her Mobile Phone During the Walk in the City Center.
Health, Individual/Family, Short Term

Expat Health Insurance: Coverage, Costs, and How to Choose the Right Plan

Living abroad? Your U.S. health insurance likely won't cover you. International expat health insurance provides medical coverage worldwide, from routine care to emergency evacuation.
HealthPlans of NC

A couple looking at something and smiling
Medicare

Does Medicare Cover Dental and Vision? Your Coverage Options in North Carolina

Medicare Parts A and B don't cover routine dental or vision. Here's how to add these benefits through Medicare Advantage or standalone insurance plans in North Carolina.
HealthPlans of NC

Senior couple holding papers
Health, Medicare

Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNPs) in North Carolina: Benefits, Eligibility, and How to Enroll

Dual Special Needs Plans combine Medicare and Medicaid benefits into one plan, offering extra coverage and care coordination at little to no cost.
HealthPlans of NC

Mature Asian lady with positive grey haired friend spend time together sitting at small table in street cafe on nice autumn day
Medicare

Medigap Plan L: 75% Coverage with an Out-of-Pocket Maximum

Medigap Plan L is a cost-sharing plan that covers 75% of most Medicare out-of-pocket costs. It includes an annual cap to protect you from unlimited expenses.
HealthPlans of NC

Full length of encouraged calm retired man and woman are talking to each other while standing outdoors. They are carrying a suitcase while looking at each other with love.
Medicare

Medicare Coverage When Traveling: What's Covered in the U.S. and Abroad (2025 Guide)

Planning a trip? Understanding how your Medicare coverage works away from home is essential. While Medicare provides solid protection domestically, international coverage is limited—prompting many travelers to consider supplemental options.
HealthPlans of NC

Shot of a young woman checking her results in the dentists office
Health, Dental

The Connection Between Dental Health and Overall Health: Why Your Mouth Matters More Than You Think

Research increasingly shows that oral health and overall health are deeply connected. Regular dental checkups don't just protect your teeth—they may help protect your heart, brain, and more.
HealthPlans of NC

Child blowing bubbles
Individual/Family, Individual/Family, Medicare, Affordable Care Act

Why Use a Local Health Insurance Agent in North Carolina? Benefits of Working with a Licensed Broker

Working with a local health insurance agent gives you expert guidance, access to multiple plans, and personalized service—without paying extra.
HealthPlans of NC

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Healthcare News & Stories | Health Plans of NC