North Carolina residents have a wide range of options for health insurance. There are many options available for you whether you don’t have coverage at the moment or you aren’t working. There's no reason to take a chance without any kind of coverage. Being covered by health insurance will help you avoid getting stuck with large medical bills.
Cost of health insurance in North Carolina
North Carolina's average cost of health insurance is not as high as other states. However there are some variations between counties. The average cost of health insurance in North Carolina is $6,352 per person and $25,408 per family. This is $629 lower that the national average. But, just like anywhere else, the cost of health insurance in North Carolina varies depending on the type of insurance you choose and the population you are insuring. Below is a chart that will help you compare North Carolina insurance prices.
Blue Cross Blue Shield holds nearly ninety seven percent of North Carolina’s individual market for health insurance. According to the federal data, North Carolinians paid more in 2021 that they did in 2019. North Carolina is also home to the highest percentage of enrollees, who received premium tax credit and subsidies. 93% of North Carolina residents actually received some type subsidy to lower their coverage's cost. North Carolinians received more monthly average subsidies than those in the rest of America. The average North Carolina subsidy was $568, compared to the $491 national average.
Exclusions for pre-existing conditions
Individual health insurance policies in North Carolina are subject to pre-existing condition exclusions. These exclusions can be reduced if the policyholder is able to show creditable previous health coverage. If the coverage covers a pre-existing condition within 6 months of the policy's start date, it is creditable.
Prior to the Affordable Care Act, insurers could deny coverage or charge higher premiums for people with certain health conditions. However, not all cases were affected. A survey showed that almost a quarter of all individuals who had pre-existing conditions were denied insurance coverage or charged more. 54 percent of individuals who have individual insurance were worried about losing coverage due to pre-existing condition.
Premiums
In 2018, the average premium for a North Carolina family health insurance plan was $18,211, compared to $12,000 in 2008. Premiums are not evenly distributed across counties, though. North Carolinians who had employer-sponsored health insurance spent nearly 14 percent of their state’s median income. This is compared to just under eleven percent in 2008. Comparatively, 8 percent of Americans spent their income on health care in 2008 and 11.5 percent in 2018, respectively.
Americans have made it easier to get insurance. Individuals can now purchase North Carolina health insurance from the Affordable CareAct's Health Insurance Marketplace, for less than $600 per year. A private insurer, or the Marketplace, can sell health insurance plans. Enrollment in health insurance plans in North Carolina is open from November 1 to January 15, but a qualifying event must occur before a person can enroll in an Exchange plan.
Plan for the short-term
These plans can be used to bridge gaps between short-term coverage and regular health insurance. They can be beneficial for people who are newly divorced, retire early, or are just looking to supplement their current coverage. Short-term plans typically have fewer requirements than standard health insurance, so it's important to compare the features of each plan. Make sure to compare premiums, deductibles, copays, maximum benefits, and plan start dates to make the best choice.
North Carolina residents can access short-term, temporary health insurance plans if they need it. These policies replace individual insurance policies and can last up 36 months. Some plans can be renewed for a longer period of time. They are also affordable, especially if the employer does not provide coverage.
Medicare coverage
Medicare coverage is available for seniors living in North Carolina. There are many options available. Most plans are tiered with different levels and coverage. There are also different supplemental coverage options, and some plans even offer prescription drug coverage. Original Medicare, which provides the most basic coverage, allows you choose a provider anywhere within the U.S.
Original Medicare is Medicare’s most basic form. This includes doctor visits, mental healthcare services, ambulance services, as well durable medical equipment. Original Medicare doesn't cover prescription drugs. However, Medicare Part D can provide prescription drug coverage. You can also opt for Medicare Advantage Plans that include HMOs and PPOs as well as private fee-for-service plans and special needs plans. Some of these plans even include vision and hearing coverage, fitness programs, and more.