Healthcare News & Blog

Individual/Family

Senior couple talking to health insurance agent
Blue Cross NC, Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family

How a Health Insurance Agent Can Help You Enroll Through Healthcare.gov—For Free

Healthcare.gov makes it possible to compare and enroll in health plans, but navigating your options can still be confusing. Our local North Carolina health insurance agents can help you find the right plan—and it's completely free.
HealthPlans of NC

New parents move into a new house
Health, Individual/Family, Affordable Care Act

Special Enrollment Periods: Qualifying Life Events That Let You Get Health Insurance Outside Open Enrollment

Special Enrollment Periods give you 60 days to enroll in health insurance after major life changes—even outside the annual Open Enrollment window.
HealthPlans of NC

Five older women walking in the water on a beach
Health, Individual/Family, Blue Cross NC

Should Employers Cover GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs? Benefits, Costs, and Considerations for 2026

With obesity affecting 40% of American adults, more employers are considering coverage for GLP-1 weight loss drugs. But these medications come with high costs. Here's what employers need to know about coverage trends, benefits, and considerations.
HealthPlans of NC

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

Health Insurance for Complex Cases: When You Need an Agent Who Understands Your Situation

Complex health situations—chronic conditions, multiple prescriptions, specialized treatments—require more than a basic plan comparison. An experienced health insurance agent can navigate the complexities and find coverage that actually fits your needs.
HealthPlans of NC

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

COBRA Vs. Marketplace Health Insurance: Your Guide to Coverage After Losing Employer Benefits (2025-2026)

Before automatically choosing COBRA continuation coverage after losing your job, explore all your options. In many cases, Marketplace plans offer better value—especially with premium tax credits that can significantly reduce your costs.
HealthPlans of NC

Group of older friends walking together through a park
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

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

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

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

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

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

Pregnant woman meeting with a doctor
Individual/Family

Maternity Coverage Under the Affordable Care Act: A Quick Overview

The Affordable Care Act requires all ACA-compliant health plans to cover maternity care, including prenatal visits, labor, delivery, newborn care, and lactation support. Pregnancy is no longer a pre-existing condition. In North Carolina, contact our agents for affordable plan options and enrollment help.
HealthPlans of NC

Business team standing together
Individual/Family, Affordable Care Act

Benefits of Using a Health Insurance Agent or Broker

Health insurance agents save time, find affordable quotes, and provide expert guidance on plans like Medicare, Marketplace, or private coverage—tailored to your needs in North Carolina. Contact Health Plans of NC for personalized help!
HealthPlans of NC

Construction engineer working at an office desk
CHOICE Arrangements, Individual/Family, Medicare

Unlocking the Power of CHOICE Arrangements: A Comprehensive Guide for Employers

This employer guide to the CHOICE Arrangement (formerly ICHRA) explains how employers can reimburse employees for individual health insurance premiums and expenses, offering cost savings, budget control, flexibility, and tax benefits over traditional group plans.
HealthPlans of NC

Aerial view of downtown Asheville with the Blue Ridge Mountains behind it
Blue Cross NC, Medicare, Individual/Family

Asheville, North Carolina: A Vibrant Mountain City

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its arts scene, outdoor recreation and regional hospitals. Here’s an overview of life and health care in Asheville, and how to find health coverage that fits.
HealthPlans of NC

Hay Street, Downtown Fayetteville, North Carolina. KMayner78
Blue Cross NC, Medicare, Individual/Family

Fayetteville, North Carolina: A Vibrant City with Rich History and Comprehensive Healthcare

Fayetteville, NC, a vibrant city with a rich military and historical legacy, offers comprehensive healthcare through Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, Womack Army Medical Center, and specialized clinics. With robust senior care, primary care, and community programs, it ensures accessible, quality healthcare for all residents.
HealthPlans of NC

Downtown Durham, North Carolina, at dusk
Blue Cross NC, Individual/Family, Medicare

Durham NC Healthcare Facilities

Durham, NC, the City of Medicine, boasts top facilities like Duke University Hospital and UNC Medical Center for advanced cardiology, oncology, and pediatric care. Medicare supports specialized clinics and retirement communities. Blue Cross NC offers affordable plans with preventive services, drug cost caps, and extras like dental and fitness benefits.
HealthPlans of NC

Greensboro skyline
Blue Cross NC, Medicare, Individual/Family, Affordable Care Act

Greensboro, NC: Facilities and the Advantages of Blue Cross NC

Greensboro, North Carolina, boasts comprehensive healthcare with hospitals like Moses H. Cone Memorial, primary care clinics such as Eagle Physicians and Guilford Medical Associates, specialized centers for cancer, heart, and orthopedics, mental health services, and senior facilities including Friends Homes at Guilford. Medicare support features tailored clinics and retirement communities. Blue Cross NC offers extensive coverage, preventive care, member perks, nationwide access, and cost savings.
HealthPlans of NC

Older couple using a tablet together at home
Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family, Medicare

What Is a Fiduciary Health Insurance Agent?

A fiduciary health insurance agent prioritizes your best interests, offering transparent, tailored advice on ACA, Medicare, or group plans. Legally bound to disclose conflicts and recommend optimal coverage, they ensure cost-effective, comprehensive solutions, distinguishing them from agents who may push suitable but not ideal plans.
HealthPlans of NC

Five professionally dressed people smiling in an office hallway
Blue Cross NC, Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family, Medicare

AI-Powered, Agent-Driven: Why Human Expertise Still Leads Health Insurance Enrollment

As technology reshapes industries, many wonder how artificial intelligence (AI) will impact the enrollment process for health insurance. At Health Plans of NC, we understand the concerns some agents and clients have about AI-driven tools potentially replacing the personalized service our team provides. However, we believe the future is bright for both our clients and our dedicated agents in North Carolina. Here’s why human expertise remains irreplaceable, even as AI enhances the enrollment process.
AI: A Tool, Not a Replacement
AI is making waves in the health insurance industry, streamlining tasks such as answering basic questions, comparing plan options, and processing applications. For example, chatbots can quickly explain deductibles, and algorithms can suggest plans based on a client’s budget and health needs. These tools are efficient, available 24/7, and appealing to tech-savvy consumers who value speed.
HealthPlans of NC

Charlotte - North Carolina, North Carolina - US State, Downtown District, Urban Skyline, Financial District
Health, Blue Cross NC, Affordable Care Act, Medicare, Individual/Family

Access to Healthcare Providers with Blue Cross NC in Charlotte

This article explores the extensive provider access available through Blue Cross NC in Charlotte, North Carolina. It highlights the robust network of doctors, specialists, and hospitals available to members enrolled in ACA, Medicare HMO, and PPO plans. The article also explains how to find in-network providers, the benefits of telehealth, and tools like the member portal that help members manage their care. Whether you're new to the area or comparing plan options, Blue Cross NC offers comprehensive healthcare coverage for individuals and families across Charlotte.
HealthPlans of NC

Older woman using a smartphone at her desk
Affordable Care Act, Individual/Family, Group

2026 HSA Contribution Limits and Deductibles: What You Need to Know

IRS announces 2026 HSA limits: $4,400 for self-only (+$100) and $8,750 for family (+$200). Minimum deductibles rise to $1,700 (self) and $3,400 (family), with out-of-pocket caps at $8,500 and $17,000. North Carolinians, maximize tax-free savings with Health Plans of NC. Contact us for HSA guidance!
HealthPlans of NC

Older woman playing pickleball
Blue Cross NC, Individual/Family, Medicare

Hearing Testing Coverage with Blue Cross NC

General Coverage for Hearing Testing:
Hearing testing coverage with Blue Cross NC  depends on the specific plan you’re enrolled in.
  -  Routine Hearing Exams: 
HealthPlans of NC

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