Healthcare News & Blog

Learn how formularies, drug tiers, prior authorization, and step therapy affect your prescription costs on NC marketplace and Medicare health plans.

Four health systems want 92 new beds in western NC, and residents oppose Mission's bid. Here's how the outcome could affect your health plan and coverage options.

Learn how Medigap plans work in North Carolina, what each lettered plan covers, how much they cost, and how to choose the right Medicare supplement for your needs.

Learn when NC seniors can enroll in Medicare, how IEPs and SEPs work, and how to avoid costly late-enrollment penalties. Plain-language guide for 2026.

Compare Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans in NC — costs, coverage, top insurers, and enrollment steps for North Carolina seniors in 2026.

Learn how to evaluate provider networks for health plans in rural North Carolina and find coverage that gives you real, nearby access to the care you need.

From Medicaid changes to Medicare and ACA plans, here's what rural North Carolina residents need to know about their health coverage options in 2026.

Learn how Medicare Part D prescription drug plans work in North Carolina — formularies, costs, coverage gaps, and how to avoid late-enrollment penalties.

Retiring before 65 in NC? Explore ACA Marketplace subsidies, COBRA, spousal plans, and cost strategies to bridge the gap until Medicare starts.

Learn how to appeal denied health insurance claims in NC. Step-by-step guidance for ACA marketplace and Medicare plans, deadlines, documents, and free resources.

Two active Cyclospora outbreaks — including a Taco Bell cluster in 9 states — put NC residents on alert. Learn symptoms, safe foods, and how your health plan covers care.

NC's new Health Care Affordability Commission held its first meeting July 21, 2026. Learn what it could mean for your health insurance costs and coverage options.

Retiring in NC before 65? Compare ACA Marketplace plans, COBRA, spousal coverage, and Medicare options to find the right health coverage for your situation.

Blue Cross NC's five Medicare Supplement plans cover benefits, premiums, eligibility, and added-value programs.

Fill the gaps in Original Medicare with a plan that fits your budget.

SilverSneakers gives Blue Cross NC Medicare members free access to gyms, classes, and online fitness programs designed for older adults.

Beyond Original Medicare Parts A and B, you have several options to get additional coverage. Over 34 million Americans (54% of Medicare beneficiaries) are now enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans, while millions more use Medigap or standalone Part D plans. Understanding your options can help you find the right coverage for your health needs and budget.

If you have both Medicare and Medicaid, a Dual Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) can simplify your healthcare while providing valuable extra benefits at little to no cost. Nearly 6 million Americans are enrolled in D-SNPs, and North Carolina residents have multiple plan options. Here's everything you need to know about eligibility, benefits, and enrollment.

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans offer an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare, bundling hospital, medical, and usually prescription drug coverage. Most plans include extra benefits like dental, vision, and hearing—plus an out-of-pocket maximum to protect you from high costs.

Understanding how Medicare coordinates with employer coverage is essential for maximizing benefits and avoiding penalties. This guide explains primary and secondary payer rules, enrollment timing, and the pros and cons of dual coverage.

Medigap Plan C is one of the most comprehensive Medicare Supplement plans available, covering both Part A and Part B deductibles. However, it's only available to people who were eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020. Here's what Plan C covers and what alternatives are available if you're newly eligible.

Medicare Advantage agents serve as your guide through the complex world of Medicare Part C plans. They help you compare options, verify your doctors are in-network, check prescription drug coverage, and find plans with the supplemental benefits you need—all at no cost to you.

As pharmacy closures create 'pharmacy deserts' across the nation, Blue Cross NC provides multiple solutions to ensure members can continue accessing their prescriptions—from Amazon Pharmacy mail-order delivery to enhanced services at independent pharmacies.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans help fill the gaps left by Original Medicare—covering deductibles, coinsurance, and copays that could otherwise add up quickly. Here's what you need to know about Medigap coverage in 2025-2026.