Healthcare News & Blog

Medicare

Senior Couple on computer applying for medicare
Medicare

What Else Should I Consider When I Apply for Medicare? (2025-2026 Guide)

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 multi-ethnic mature and senior adults sitting indoors at a table, drinking coffee, conversing and smiling. The main focus is on an African-American couple in their 50s. Their friends are a senior couple in their 70s.
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

Two active seniors walk their dog
Medicare, Blue Cross NC

Medicare Part D $2,000 Out-of-Pocket Cap: How It Works and What It Means for You (2025-2026)

Major relief for Medicare prescription drug costs is here. The Inflation Reduction Act caps annual out-of-pocket spending at $2,000 in 2025 and introduces Medicare-negotiated drug prices 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

Joyful group of senior friends wearing warm clothes walking along park alley and chatting animatedly with each other, picturesque view on background
Individual/Family, Medicare, Short Term, Group, Health

Find a Health Insurance Agent in North Carolina: Choose the Right Expert for Your Needs

Finding the right health insurance plan starts with finding the right person to help you. Our Find an Agent tool lets you choose which licensed agent works with you based on specialties, reviews, and availability.
HealthPlans of NC

Senior man and woman shake hands with insurance agent after finding a policy that fits their Medicare needs and budget
Medicare

Medicare Part B: What It Covers, How Much It Costs, and How to Enroll in 2025 and 2026

Medicare Part B is medical insurance that covers doctor visits, outpatient services, preventive care, and durable medical equipment. The standard premium is $185/month in 2025 and $202.90/month in 2026.
HealthPlans of NC

Older couple with a younger woman at a desk with clipboard and laptop
Medicare

Medicare and Employer Insurance: How They Work Together and When to Enroll

If you're turning 65 and still working, you may be able to keep your employer insurance alongside Medicare—or choose one over the other. Here's how to decide.
HealthPlans of NC

Three older women at a desk with a laptop
Medicare

Medicare Part A: What It Covers, Costs, and How to Enroll

Medicare Part A is hospital insurance that covers inpatient care, skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and some home health services.
HealthPlans of NC

Five older people smiling after exercising
Medicare

AARP Medicare Plans From UnitedHealthcare: Medicare Advantage, Medigap, Part D, and D-SNP Options

AARP partners with UnitedHealthcare to offer Medicare plans, including Medicare Advantage, Medigap, Part D, and D-SNPs. Learn which plan is right for you.
HealthPlans of NC

Four women at an office meeting
Medicare, Group

Medicare and Employer Health Insurance: A Guide for HR Managers in North Carolina

When employees turn 65, questions about Medicare and employer coverage come to HR. Our licensed Medicare agents help NC businesses provide accurate answers.
HealthPlans of NC

Hand-holding notebook written Medicare Supplement Insurance
Medicare

How Much Does Medicare Supplement Insurance Cost in 2025-2026?

Medigap premiums vary widely based on plan type, age, location, and insurance company. Here's what to expect and how to find affordable coverage.
HealthPlans of NC

Businessman talking to a man across a table
Health, Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family, Medicare

Questions to Ask a Health Insurance Agent Before Choosing a Plan

A licensed health insurance agent can help you find the right coverage—but only if you ask the right questions. Use this guide to prepare for your conversation.
HealthPlans of NC

Canoe on a lake at sunset
Health, Blue Cross NC, Affordable Care Act, Medicare, Individual/Family

How to Protect Yourself From Health Insurance Scams in 2026

Health insurance scams cost Americans billions each year. Learn to recognize common scams, protect your personal information, and find legitimate help for your health insurance needs.
HealthPlans of NC

Medicare, Blue Cross NC

Blue Cross NC Blue FlexCard: What It Is, How to Use It, and What's Covered

Complete guide to the Blue Cross NC Blue FlexCard for Medicare Advantage members. Understand your allowance, eligible expenses, and how to use your card online, in-store, or by phone.
HealthPlans of NC

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

Is Medicare Commercial Insurance? Understanding the Difference and Your Coverage Options

Complete guide to Medicare vs. commercial health insurance. Learn what Medicare covers, how it's funded, and whether Medicare Advantage and Medigap count as commercial plans.
HealthPlans of NC

Female doctor talking to older man patient
ICHRA, Medicare

ICHRA Vs. Taxable Stipends: Why Small Businesses Should Stop Adding Pay and Start Reimbursing Health Insurance

Learn why ICHRA outperforms taxable stipends for small business health benefits. Compare tax savings, Medicare employee options, compliance advantages, and flexibility to make the smartest choice for your team.
HealthPlans of NC

A couple looking at each other
Medicare

Medicare Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): When and How to Sign Up for Medicare in 2026

Complete guide to Medicare's Initial Enrollment Period. Understand your 7-month enrollment window, automatic enrollment rules, employer coverage options, and how to avoid costly penalties.
HealthPlans of NC

Family eating dinner
Medicare

How to Enroll in Medicare in North Carolina: Complete Guide for 2026

Step-by-step guide to Medicare enrollment for North Carolina residents. Learn about automatic enrollment, Initial Enrollment Periods, coverage options, and how local agents can help you navigate the process.
HealthPlans of NC

Shot of a young pharmacist helping an elderly customer at the prescription counter.
Health, Medicare

Medicare Drug Price Negotiation 2026: How the Inflation Reduction Act Affects North Carolina Seniors

Medicare drug price negotiations are now in effect! Learn which 10 drugs have lower prices in 2026, how much you'll save, and what North Carolina Medicare beneficiaries need to know.
HealthPlans of NC

Group of people sitting and smiling - one people seems happy surprised!
Medicare

Medigap Plan G: Comprehensive Coverage with Great Value

Medigap Plan G covers nearly all Original Medicare gaps, including hospital deductibles, Part B coinsurance/excess charges, skilled nursing, and foreign travel emergencies—except the Part B deductible. It offers comprehensive protection at lower premiums than Plan F.
HealthPlans of NC

Family picture
Medicare

Medicare Questions and Answers: Common Medicare FAQs for 2026

Comprehensive Medicare FAQ covering enrollment, costs, coverage options, working past 65, dental and vision benefits, financial assistance, and more. Expert answers from North Carolina Medicare specialists.
HealthPlans of NC

Shot of a three senior women elderly laughing and having coffee together
Medicare

Medicare Supplement Plan B: Coverage, Costs, and Comparison for 2026

Learn about Medigap Plan B coverage, costs, and benefits for 2026. Compare what's covered vs. not covered, see how it compares to other plans, and get expert help from NC Medicare specialists.
HealthPlans of NC

Couple smiling at each other
Medicare

Understanding Your Medicare Options at Age 65

Medigap Plan G covers most Original Medicare gaps, including hospital deductibles, Part B coinsurance/excess charges, skilled nursing, and foreign travel emergencies—except the Part B deductible. It offers strong protection at lower premiums than Plan F.
HealthPlans of NC

Three men resting during a hike
Medicare

Medicare Supplement Insurance North Carolina: Complete Guide to Medigap Plans 2026

Comprehensive 2026 guide to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans in North Carolina. Compares all 10 plan options, updated costs, enrollment periods, and benefits.
HealthPlans of NC

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