Healthcare News & Blog

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

Medicare Part B is medical insurance that covers doctor visits, outpatient services, preventive care, and durable medical equipment. The standard premium is $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

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

Woman working on a laptop at home
Individual/Family, Affordable Care Act

Health Insurance for Self-Employed Workers in North Carolina: Your Complete Guide for 2025 and 2026

Self-employed workers in North Carolina can access affordable health insurance through the ACA Marketplace, with subsidies available to lower costs. This guide covers your options, enrollment dates, and how to choose the right plan.
HealthPlans of NC

Hand-holding notebook written Medicare Supplement Insurance
Medicare

How Much Does Medicare Supplement Insurance Cost?

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

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Blue Cross NC

Your Blue Cross NC Member Portal Guide

A complete guide to Blue Cross NC's member portal. Discover the top features, mobile app benefits, and step-by-step registration instructions.
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

Six people walking on a beach
Individual/Family

Pre-Existing Conditions and Health Insurance: Your Rights and Coverage Options in 2026

Complete guide to pre-existing conditions and health insurance. Learn your rights under the ACA, what's covered, pregnancy protections, and how to find coverage in North Carolina.
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
CHOICE Arrangements, Medicare

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

Learn why a CHOICE Arrangement 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

Worker Friends Going With Bicycles On City Park
Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family

Turning 26 in North Carolina? Your Complete Guide to Health Insurance After Aging Off Your Parents' Plan

Complete guide for North Carolina young adults aging off their parents' health insurance at 26. Compare Medicaid, marketplace plans, and Blue Cross NC options. Understand costs, subsidies, and enrollment deadlines.
HealthPlans of NC

signing contract with an agent
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

Young woman discussing her health care with a provider
Individual/Family

Health Insurance Options for 26-Year-Olds in North Carolina

Turning 26 often means losing parental coverage—time to get your own health insurance! Options include employer plans, Marketplace ACA plans (with subsidies), or Medicaid if eligible. Our North Carolina agents help you find affordable coverage that fits your needs and budget.
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

Six people smiling and hugging outside
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

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

Can I Change My Health Insurance Agent? How to Switch Agents and What to Expect

Complete guide to changing your health insurance agent. Learn the simple process, understand timing considerations, and discover what qualities to look for in your new agent.
HealthPlans of NC

Older man using a laptop on the couch
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

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

Man-holding Medicare Supplement Plans with the group
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

Four people at a meeting with laptops shaking hands
Medicare

Compare Medigap Plans in North Carolina: Which Medicare Supplement Plan Is Best for You?

Compare all 10 Medigap plans in North Carolina. Learn which Medicare Supplement plan offers the best coverage for your needs. Free expert guidance from local NC agents.
HealthPlans of NC

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