Healthcare News & Stories

Happy granddaughter smiling between two grandparents
Health, Individual/Family

Can You Put Non-Family Members on Your Health Insurance?

Despite being an essential component of everyday well-being, most are not aware of the intricacies of health insurance. Typically, for elderly individuals, there are Medicare plans, which are policyholder only. Alternatively, there are employer-sponsored group health plans and Marketplace insurance plans that provide coverage for dependents. 
While you can claim dependents on your health insurance plan, many individuals are not properly informed of various eligibility requirements.  
This spurs the question, “Can you put non-family members on your insurance plan?” In this article, we will answer that question and provide additional information about who can be added to health insurance plans and its effects.
HealthPlans of NC

Husband and wife calculating finances
Individual/Family

Best Health Insurance for Couples Planning a Family

Starting a family can be very exciting for new couples. However, stress can easily pile up when insurance policies don’t cover an unexpected cost or monthly premiums become too high.
In fact, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation, the average monthly premium for a “Silver” plan covering a 40-year-old married couple was $1,120. That’s not considering all the possible pocket costs of growing your family.
Many unknowns can leave couples asking, “What options work best for us?  What can we expect when we decide to have children? And, what is the best health insurance for couples planning a family?”
HealthPlans of NC

happy family of three
Health, Individual/Family

Best Family Health Insurance Plans

Insurance involves monthly premiums, deductibles, categories, out-of-pocket expenses, out-of-network costs, and premium tax credits. For many people, these terms can cause stress and confusion.
Those searching for the best individual or family plan often encounter these daunting terms. It can be hard to fully understand what it means and how it impacts your bottom line. Plus, you may not know how to compare plans effectively.
In this article, we’ll dive into areas you should consider when looking at healthcare plans and why they matter. You’ll also learn about the best family health insurance plans and how to choose the right one.
HealthPlans of NC

Family
Medicare

What Is Family Insurance: A Complete Guide

Health insurance for one person can be extremely intimidating and an exhaustive process. Now, imagine the pressure for a growing family who has to balance doubled premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums.
If you’re struggling to understand the overall benefit of family insurance and why your family may benefit from it, we’re here to help. This article will answer and expand on the question, “What is family insurance?”
What Are Family Insurance Policies?
HealthPlans of NC

A woman looking at her senior couple of client who is holding a papers
Medicare

Is Medicare a Type of Commercial Insurance?

Health plan costs have risen substantially, yet salaries have remained nearly flat, up only 15% per year. At the beginning of every year, working Americans are demoted as health care costs unsustainably rise more than salaries.
In 2015, the Kaiser Family Foundation found that medical bills caused one million adults to declare bankruptcy. Its survey found that 26 percent of Americans aged 18 to 64 struggled to pay medical bills, which, according to the U.S. Census, represents 52 million adults.
However, most people eligible for Medicare hesitate to enroll because no one has told them the benefits they may qualify for. In this article, we’ll compare Medicare to other kinds of commercial insurance and answer the question, “Is Medicare commercial insurance?”
HealthPlans of NC

Female doctor talking to older man patient
Medicare

How Does Medicare Work with Other Insurance: Complete Guide

Coordination of Benefits, primary insurer, and secondary payer are terms that many people with multiple insurers are familiar with.
While some may think that Medicare is a one-and-done deal and think that they have to give up their current insurance plan – this isn’t true. In fact, with the proper knowledge and know-how, Medicare can expand your coverage and ease your financial burdens.
But that all depends on your insurance, medical situation, and more. In this article, we’ll be exploring how Medicare works with other insurance plans. 
HealthPlans of NC

woman arranging paper works
Medicare

Medicare Advantage Plan: Can You Have One with Employer Insurance?

As the workforce ages, associated statistics play a prominent role in claim cost projections. Statistically, employees aged 65 and older incur two to three times the claim cost of average employees aged 40. However, claims equal risk, and unfortunately, this drives up health insurance premiums or self-insured costs.
Employees who know their health coverage options use a Medicare Advantage Plan to help with these costs. But knowing which medical insurance plan is the most beneficial for you and what you’re eligible for involves a lot of research.
Below, we’ll discuss a Medicare Advantage Plan, your options, and how it works with employer insurance. We also answer, “Can you have a Medicare Advantage Plan and employer insurance?”
HealthPlans of NC

Male agent discussing to a couple about insurance
Medicare

Know When Medicare Is Your Primary or Secondary Insurance

Medicare, a federal health insurance program, is meant to provide comprehensive health coverage for qualifying individuals. This includes people over the age of 65, those with disabilities, or those with end-stage renal disease. Many ask, “Is Medicare primary or secondary insurance?” 
In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about Medicare coverage and examine how it works with other coverage plans, such as group health plans and retiree insurance. 
What is Primary or Secondary Insurance?
HealthPlans of NC

Old woman smiling while looking at her tablet
Medicare

How Does Medicare Work with Retiree Insurance?

It is of utmost importance to have health insurance that is both comprehensive and affordable. Many receive coverage through Medicare and retiree health benefits. Understandably, costly Medicare expenses can be pretty concerning. Thankfully, retiree insurance can work with Medicare to make out-of-pocket costs more manageable. It’s also important to note that retiree insurance should fit within creditable coverage. But how does Medicare work with retiree insurance?
This article will discuss everything you need to know about Medicare health coverage and how it works with retiree insurance.  
Understanding Your Medicare and Retiree Insurance
HealthPlans of NC

Businessman talking to a man and a woman at a table
Medicare

Who Regulates Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans?

As we all know, quality and comprehensive health coverage are essential. However, insurance plan out-of-pocket costs can be quite expensive. Therefore, to help pay for Medicare expenses, Medigap policies are available to qualifying individuals. But who regulates Medicare supplement insurance plans?
Medigap, or Medicare Supplement insurance plans, can be an effective option to mitigate concerns about healthcare costs. It is important to know what these policies are, how to be eligible, and the benefits they offer. Furthermore, you should consider speaking to an experienced health insurance agent. 
This article will discuss everything you need to know about the regulation of Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans.
HealthPlans of NC

Does Medicare Cover Dental Care?
Medicare

Does Medicare Cover Dental Care?

As an insurance policyholder, it is important to know which services are covered and the benefits you can receive. For example, many people wonder, “Does Medicare cover dental?” Therefore, Medicare members should know whether or not their plans offer dental insurance. Understandably, paying costly out-of-pocket expenses for dental care can be concerning. In addition, a lack of knowledge of Medicare’s dental coverage options can be distressing as well. 
In this article, we will discuss what you need to know about Medicare and potential dental plans. With proper information, you can make the right decision regarding dental care.
Understanding Medicare’s Dental Coverage
HealthPlans of NC

Disabled woman sitting in a wheelchair talking to another woman
Medicare

Does Medicare Cover Disability Insurance?

Approximately 54 million people in the United States have a disability. Regarding health insurance, insurers consider a person disabled when they cannot perform job duties due to an illness or injury. Also, people who struggle with a disability often struggle to get the medical coverage they need. Medicare covers a wide range of issues, but does Medicare cover disability insurance?
This article will focus on Medicare services and whether or not it covers disability insurance. It will also offer specifics about who Medicare can help (those with Lou Gehrig’s disease, end-stage renal disease, or who are over 65) and social security disability insurance.
For people with disabilities, finding affordable health plan coverage that meets all of their needs can be challenging. Finding a qualified insurance agent can be a big help if you are seeking assistance enrolling in Medicare coverage. Health Plans of North Carolina can help. Explore our options today.
HealthPlans of NC

Doctor talking to senior couple
Medicare

What Is the Best Health Insurance for Seniors on Medicare

Upon turning 65, many seniors opt to enroll in Medicare. Medicare is federal health insurance coverage designed to support individuals over 65, who have eligible disabilities, or who have End Stage Renal Disease. While Medicare offers multiple parts and is considered quality healthcare, it isn’t comprehensive enough for everyone. So what is the best health insurance for seniors on Medicare?
For most Americans, medical insurance can be quite costly. Finding affordable health insurance alongside Medicare that covers basic needs, emergency care, long-term care, prescription drug coverage, and dental can be quite challenging. Some private insurance companies can raise monthly premiums as you age, making it very difficult to pay for the coverage you need.
The purpose of this article is to explore health insurance options for seniors on Medicare, and to help them find the best option available. For more information about health insurance options in the state of North Carolina, explore our website today. 
HealthPlans of NC

Senior man and woman on computer
Medicare

What Is Medicare Supplemental Insurance? Understanding Its Coverage and Benefits

Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans, also known as Medigap, are types of health insurance plans meant to help individuals pay for out-of-pocket expenses. Primarily, it provides coverage for monthly premiums, copayments, and coinsurance. With several different plan types, you may be able to find a supplement plan that works best for you. You can also speak with a licensed and experienced health insurance agent to answer any questions or concerns you may have. 
HealthPlans of NC

Health Plans of NC

Hand-holding notebook written Medicare Supplement Insurance
Medicare

What Is The Average Cost of Supplemental Insurance for Medicare? Tips On How You Can Save

There is no such thing as perfect insurance. When unexpected health concerns arise, even the best insurance plans may not be enough to cover all the costs. Knowing what Medicare supplemental insurance options are available can be extremely helpful for individuals with Medicare. But what is the average price of Medicare supplemental insurance?
Medicare supplemental insurance (Medigap) refers to extra insurance that can be added to your regular medical coverage plan. Users can purchase Medigap through a private insurance company, helping them pay out-of-pocket costs. Medigap plans aren’t like normal insurance plans. Their purpose is to cover the expenses you may be responsible for in your Original Medicare plan.
This article will focus on supplemental insurance and why you need it. It will also answer questions like, what is the average cost of a Medicare supplement? And, what is the average cost of medicare part B supplemental insurance?
HealthPlans of NC

Young lady agent assisting a woman
Health

Why You Need a Health Insurance Agent for Complex Cases

What is a Complex Case?
A complex case refers to specific healthcare needs for you or your family based on your circumstances. 
Here are some examples where seeking advice from a health insurance agent can be beneficial:
HealthPlans of NC

Old man holding his Medicare identification card
Medicare

Can I Have Both Employer Insurance and Medicare?

Having quality medical insurance is extremely important. Living without healthcare may make you susceptible to substantial medical bills you can’t afford. There are several different healthcare options, including employer insurance and Medicare. So, you may wonder, “Can I have employer insurance and Medicare?”.
Employer coverage refers to health insurance purchased by your employer. This insurance is then offered to their employees as part of a benefits package. An employer health plan is considered private health insurance coverage. 
Meanwhile, Medicare is a form of federal health insurance offered to people 65 or older, younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease. Since it is federal-based insurance, it is not considered private. 
HealthPlans of NC

Old woman holding phone
Medicare

Can You Have Private Insurance and Medicare at the Same Time?

In today’s world, taking care of your health starts with proper health coverage. You could get stuck with massive, avoidable debt without health care coverage that meets your medical needs. Private insurance and Medicare are two of the more popular forms of medical insurance. You may wonder, “Can you have private insurance and Medicare simultaneously?”
Private insurance refers to health coverage offered by the private health insurance industry. Private insurance companies that operate as separate, individual businesses offer a private insurance plan. According to a 2020 report from the U.S. Census Bureau, 68 percent of Americans have private health insurance.
Meanwhile, Medicare is a federal insurance plan eligible for adults 65 or older, individuals with disabilities, or people suffering from End-Stage Renal Disease. The government directly offers Medicare, not private insurance companies. 
HealthPlans of NC

Family happily smiling
Individual/Family

How Much Is Health Insurance For a Family of Three: All You Need to Know

Health insurance is essential, as individuals should receive comprehensive coverage for various medical procedures and expenses. However, trying to find the right insurance plan at an affordable price can feel overwhelming. Proper information lets you learn more about potential costs and what to look for when choosing a coverage plan. This article will answer the question, “How much is health insurance for a family of 3? We will tell you everything you need to know to make the best decision. 
What is the Average Cost of Health Insurance for a Family of 3
A variety of factors determine the price of health insurance. To begin, you must understand the different expenses you must pay. Every month, you will pay a monthly premium. This is a decided amount you must pay to receive health coverage. Then, there is your deductible, the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance begins to provide coverage. Once the deductible is met, various cost-sharing methods will be implemented. 
HealthPlans of NC

A health insurance agent reassures her clients
Health, Individual/Family, Affordable Care Act

Why You Need a Health Insurance Agent for Complex Cases

What is a Complex Case?
A complex case refers to specific healthcare needs for you or your family based on your circumstances. 
Here are some examples where seeking advice from a health insurance agent can be beneficial:
HealthPlans of NC

Health Plans of NC by Kelly Quinn

Woman smiles at camera while packing up her office for a job change
Individual/Family, Affordable Care Act, Blue Cross NC

Changing Jobs? Get a Better Deal With Health Plans of NC

Life can be full of planned events and some that are a little more unexpected. If you're changing jobs or facing unemployment, and need to reconsider your health plan, our local North Carolina health insurance agents are here to help.  Our agents work hard every day to find clients a better deal than COBRA. So before you use COBRA, call us to see how we can help. 
HealthPlans of NC

Health Plans of North Carolina by Kelly Quinn

group of smiling seniors
Medicare, Blue Cross NC

The Rise of Enrollment in Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage continues to grow in popularity with Medicare beneficiaries. Data released in January 2023 by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services shows Medicare Advantage provides coverage for just over half of all Medicare-eligible beneficiaries. So out of almost 60 million people enrolled in Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B, just over 30 million are enrolled in a private plan.
HealthPlans of NC

Health Plans of NC

Health Insurance agent team
Individual/Family, Medicare, Short Term, Group, Health

The Benefits of Choosing Your Health Insurance Agent

At Health Plans of NC, our experienced and professional team of locally based health insurance agents are here to help you. We've recently launched a new website to make it even easier for anyone living in North Carolina to access the best health insurance plan.  You can request a quote online in seconds simply by providing your zip code. It's a great way to get a quote fast, and we'll assign you to one of our knowledgeable North Carolina agents here to help you find the right plan for your health needs and budget. But if you want more control over your chosen agent, we recommend you look at our new 'Find an Agent' feature. This tool gives you the power to choose which insurance broker you use. 
HealthPlans of NC

Health Plans of NC by Kelly Quinn

A male and female middle aged smiling couple looking at the computer
Health

What Type of AARP Medical Plan Is Right For You?

AARP is a non-profit organization that aims to assist and advocate for individuals over 50 on issues relating to health security and financial stability. For qualifying individuals, it is helpful to stay informed on the different coverage plans available. By doing so, they can find a plan that is affordable and provides proper benefits.
What Are The Available Medical Plans For Members?
There are different insurance plans AARP members can enroll in. Each plan may have varying eligibility requirements.
HealthPlans of NC

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