Healthcare News & Blog

Navigate the complex decision between Medicare and private health insurance with this comprehensive comparison guide. Understand eligibility requirements, coverage differences, cost structures, and provider networks for both options. Learn when Medicare makes sense (typically age 65+), when private insurance is necessary (families, under 65, employer coverage), and whether you can have both simultaneously. Explore detailed breakdowns of Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D, plus private plan types including PPO, HMO, EPO, and POS options. Discover how coordination of benefits works, compare actual costs including premiums and deductibles, and get practical guidance on choosing the right coverage for your age, family situation, and healthcare needs.

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.

Resistance training boosts brain health, enhancing cognitive function, strengthening neural connections, and slowing brain shrinkage in older adults. Accessible at home or with a trainer, it pairs well with nutrition coaching. Blue Cross NC supports wellness through fitness programs, health coaching, and resources, empowering members to improve body and mind.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Turning 65 is a pivotal moment for healthcare planning, as it marks eligibility for Medicare, including Part B, which covers outpatient medical services like doctor visits, preventive care, and diagnostic tests. Deciding whether to enroll in Part B, especially with group health coverage through a large or small employer, requires careful consideration. Missing enrollment deadlines can result in penalties, and for high-income earners, premium surcharges further complicate the decision-making process. This article outlines a safe strategy for approaching Medicare Part B at 65, addressing penalties for not enrolling, the wisdom of enrolling despite group coverage, and key factors for high-income earners to consider.
Understanding Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B is a cornerstone of healthcare for individuals 65 and older, covering services such as outpatient care, laboratory tests, physical therapy, and durable medical equipment. In 2026, the standard Part B premium is $202.90 per month, with an annual deductible of $283. Part B covers 80% of approved services, leaving you responsible for the remaining 20% unless you have supplemental coverage like Medigap or a Medicare Advantage plan. For high-income earners, the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) can significantly increase premiums, with surcharges starting for individuals with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) above $103,000 (or $206,000 for married couples) based on tax returns from two years prior.

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.

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.

Turning 65 is a pivotal moment, especially if you work for a small company with fewer than 20 employees. Unlike larger firms, small employers face fewer federal mandates under laws like the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). This means no guaranteed health insurance or job protections based on age, leaving you to navigate coverage and career decisions carefully. Whether you’re staying on the job or eyeing retirement, here’s what you need to know to secure your health and finances, including critical details if you skip Medicare Part B.
Build Your Health Coverage with Medicare

Blue365 is a free health and wellness discount program available to Blue Cross NC members with active health plan coverage (e.g., commercial plans, Medicare Advantage, or Federal Employee Program plans). It’s not insurance but an added perk designed to help members save money on products and services that promote a healthy lifestyle, many of which aren’t typically covered by standard health plans.
- Categories of Deals:
- Exclusive Discounts: Members can access savings from national and local retailers on health-related items and services.

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

Blue Cross NC members can now enjoy the convenience of home delivery for prescriptions through Amazon Pharmacy, simplifying medication management while maintaining trusted benefits.

If your senior parent, relative or friend asks for your help in choosing health insurance coverage, there are several things you can do to support them.
How can I help a senior parent, relative or friend find health coverage?
Whether Medicare or other coverage, there are things to consider when trying to help your senior parent, relative or friend find health insurance. It’s not an easy subject to discuss, and it involves talking about sensitive topics like personal health and finances. It will take time and research to select the best plan. Here are four things to consider.

Upon turning 65, many seniors opt to enroll in Medicare. Medicare is federal health insurance coverage designed to support individuals over 65, who have eligible disabilities, or who have End Stage Renal Disease. While Medicare offers multiple parts and is considered quality healthcare, it isn’t comprehensive enough for everyone. So what is the best health insurance for seniors on Medicare?
For most Americans, medical insurance can be quite costly. Finding affordable health insurance alongside Medicare that covers basic needs, emergency care, long-term care, prescription drug coverage, and dental can be quite challenging. Some private insurance companies can raise monthly premiums as you age, making it very difficult to pay for the coverage you need.
The purpose of this article is to explore health insurance options for seniors on Medicare, and to help them find the best option available. For more information about health insurance options in the state of North Carolina, explore our website today. 

Medigap Plan M is a type of Medicare Supplement Plan offering basic coverage to help cover the gap for costs not covered by Original Medicare Part A and Part B. It provides a low monthly premium, but you must pay for half of your hospital deductible and 100% of your yearly outpatient deductible. 

Medigap Plan D is a mid-level Medicare Supplement plan that covers most out-of-pocket costs except the Part B deductible and Part B excess charges. Here's what you need to know.

Medigap Plan A is the most basic Medicare Supplement plan, covering core benefits at typically the lowest premium. While it helps with Part A and Part B coinsurance, it leaves you responsible for deductibles and other costs. Here's what you need to know.

When you're a part of an employer-sponsored high-deductible plan or health savings account plan, you might want to consider purchasing a High-Deductible Plan G supplement also known as a Medigap plan. This plan is similar to the High Deductible Plan F, but it doesn’t provide coverage for your Medicare Part B deductible. 

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs October 15 – December 7, 2026. It’s your yearly opportunity to review and change your Medicare coverage for 2027, when the Part D out-of-pocket cap rises to $2,400 and negotiated prices take effect for 15 more drugs.

Over 2.2 million North Carolinians are enrolled in Medicare. Whether you're newly eligible or looking to review your coverage, these frequently asked questions cover what you need to know about Medicare costs, enrollment, and coverage options.

Medicare late enrollment penalties can add lifelong extra costs to Parts A, B, and D if you miss your Initial Enrollment Period without creditable coverage. Enroll on time, verify employer plans, and keep proof to avoid fees.