North Carolina residents have a wide range of options for health insurance. Whether you don't currently have coverage or you are unemployed, there are many options available to you. There is no reason to go without coverage. You can avoid being left with huge medical bills by having health insurance.
North Carolina cost for health insurance
Although North Carolina's cost for health insurance is lower than other states, it can vary from one county to the next. North Carolina's health insurance costs average $6,352 per person, and $25.408 per family. This is $629 below the national average. However, as with all insurance, the cost for health insurance in North Carolina can vary depending on which type of insurance you choose, and how many people you insure. The chart below will allow you to compare insurance costs in North Carolina.
North Carolina's individual health insurance market is dominated by Blue Cross Blue Shield, which controls nearly ninety-seven percent of the state's individual market. According to federal data, North Carolinians paid less for their health insurance in 2021 than in 2019. Furthermore, North Carolina is home to one of the highest percentages of enrollees who received premium tax credits and subsidies. In fact, 93% North Carolina residents received some subsidy to reduce the cost of their coverage. North Carolinians received an average of $568 in monthly subsidies, which is higher than what was available for the rest. North Carolina had an average of $568 in subsidies, which is higher than the $491 average nationwide.
Exclusions from pre-existing conditions
Pre-existing conditions are exempt from individual health insurance policies in North Carolina. These exclusions may be lessened if the policyholder has prior creditable health coverage. Creditable coverage means that it covers a preexisting condition within six month of the policy date.
Prior to the Affordable Care Act insurers could deny coverage and charge higher premiums for individuals with certain conditions. In all cases, however, this was not the situation. 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
The 2018 average premium for a North Carolina family insurance plan was $18,211 compared to less than $12,000 in 2008 The premiums paid vary by county. North Carolinians with health insurance through their employers paid close to 14 percent of their state median income. That's a difference from just over eleven% in 2008. Comparatively, 8 percent of Americans spent their income on health care in 2008 and 11.5 percent in 2018, respectively.
Americans are now able to afford health insurance thanks to the Affordable Health Act. Individuals can purchase North Carolina health insurance through the Affordable Care Act's Health Insurance Marketplace for as low as $600 per month. Health insurance plans can be purchased through a private insurer or through the Marketplace. You can enroll in North Carolina's health insurance plans from November 1 through January 15, but you must have a qualifying event before you can enroll in an Exchange Plan.
Short-term plans
Short-term health insurance plans are a great way to bridge the gap between regular health insurance and short-term coverage. These plans are beneficial for those who are new parents, early retirees, or simply looking to increase their coverage. Short-term plans usually have fewer requirements that standard health insurance. Therefore, it is important to compare the features and benefits of each plan. You will be able to compare the premiums, deductibles and copays of each plan, as well as maximum benefits and plan start dates.
North Carolina residents are able to get temporary coverage with short-term health insurance plans. These policies can replace individual health insurance policies. They last up to 36 month. In some cases, these plans can be renewed for longer periods of time. They are very affordable, especially for those who don't have insurance through their employer.
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 many options for supplemental coverage, and some plans even provide prescription drug coverage. Original Medicare offers the most basic coverage. You can select any provider 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 does NOT cover prescription drugs. But, Medicare Part D provides prescription drug coverage. Or, you can choose one of the Medicare Advantage Plans. These plans include HMOs (PPOs), Private Fee-For Service plans, Special Needs Plans, and other private fees-for-service plans. Some plans include vision and/or hearing coverage, as well as fitness programs.