Healthcare News & Blog

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

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

Counselor talking with a client in an office
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

Young woman using a tablet
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

Older businesswoman talking on the phone while walking downtown
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

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

Two women talking at an outdoor café
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

Retired couple with a suitcase talking on a walkway
Medicare

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

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

woman arranging paper works
Medicare

Medicare Advantage and Employer Insurance: How They Work Together

With more Americans working past 65 than ever before, understanding how Medicare Advantage plans coordinate with employer insurance is essential. This guide covers your coverage options, who pays first, and how to make the best decision for your situation.
HealthPlans of NC

Does Medicare Cover Dental Care?
Medicare

Does Medicare Cover Dental? Your Guide to Medicare Dental Coverage

Dental care is essential to overall health, yet Original Medicare provides almost no coverage for routine dental services. Here's what Medicare members need to know about their options for dental coverage.
HealthPlans of NC

Senior Couple on computer applying for medicare
Medicare

What Else Should I Consider When I Apply for Medicare?

Once you've enrolled in Medicare, there's more to know. From reviewing your annual plan documents to understanding preventive services, here's what you should consider to get the most from your Medicare coverage.
HealthPlans of NC

Four friends talking over coffee at a table
Medicare

Medigap Plan K: Lower Premiums with an Out-of-Pocket Maximum

Medigap Plan K is a cost-sharing plan with lower premiums. It covers 50% of most Medicare out-of-pocket costs, with an annual cap that limits your total spending.
HealthPlans of NC

Coworkers meeting around a table
CHOICE Arrangements, Group

CHOICE Arrangements Vs. Group Health Insurance: Why More Employers Are Making the Switch in 2026

A CHOICE Arrangement offers employers predictable costs and employees' personal choice—a combination that traditional group health insurance can't match. Here's why adoption is accelerating.
HealthPlans of NC

Two active seniors walk their dog
Medicare, Blue Cross NC

Medicare Part D Out-of-Pocket Cap: How It Works and What It Means for You

Major relief for Medicare prescription drug costs is here. The Inflation Reduction Act caps annual out-of-pocket spending at $2,100 in 2026 (rising to $2,400 in 2027), and Medicare-negotiated drug prices took effect in 2026, saving millions of beneficiaries thousands of dollars annually.
HealthPlans of NC

Family smiling and waving at a phone
Health, Blue Cross NC, Affordable Care Act, Medicare

Why Working with a Health Insurance Agent Beats AI Chatbots and Online Tools

Technology makes health insurance research easier, but choosing the right plan requires more than a chatbot can offer. Here's why working with a local health insurance agent in North Carolina gives you an advantage—at no extra cost.
HealthPlans of NC

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