North Carolina residents have a wide range of options for health insurance. There are many options to choose from, whether you are currently uninsured or have no coverage. 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.
North Carolina health insurance costs
While the cost of health insurance in North Carolina is low compared to other states, there is some variation from county to county. North Carolina's average cost for health insurance is $6,352 per individual and $25,408 per household. This is $629 below 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. You can compare the cost of insurance in North Carolina by checking out the chart below.
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 the latest federal data, North Carolinians paid less in 2021 than they did in 2019. North Carolina has one of the highest proportions of enrollees that received subsidies and premium tax credits. 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 of pre-existing medical conditions
North Carolina individual health insurance policies are subject to exclusions for pre-existing conditions. These exclusions may be lessened if the policyholder has prior creditable health coverage. Prior coverage that covers a preexisting condition within the six-month period prior to the policy start date is considered creditable.
Before the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies could refuse coverage or charge higher premiums to people with certain medical conditions. In all cases, however, this was not the situation. A national survey found that nearly a third (33%) of those who applied for insurance coverage were denied due to pre-existing medical conditions. 54% of individuals with individual market insurance expressed concern about losing coverage because of pre-existing conditions.
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 have employer-sponsored insurance for their health care spent almost 14 percent of the state's median income in 2018, compared with just over eleven percent in 2008. In comparison, the average American spent 8 percent of their income on health care in 2008, and 11.5 percent in 2018.
Americans now have access to affordable health insurance through the Affordable Care act. The Affordable Care Act's Health Insurance Marketplace allows individuals to purchase health insurance in North Carolina for less than $600 per month. Private insurers or the Marketplace can provide health insurance plans. 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.
Plan for the short-term
A great way to bridge between regular and short-term health insurance is through short-term health insurance plans. They are great for those who are recently separated, are retiring early, or just want 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. 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 can get short-term coverage through their health insurance plan. These policies replace individual insurance policies and can last up 36 months. In some cases, these plans can be renewed for longer periods of time. These plans are very affordable, especially if your employer doesn't offer coverage.
Medicare coverage
If you're a senior in North Carolina, you may be eligible for Medicare coverage. There are many different plans that you can choose from. These plans tend to be tiered with different levels, which means they offer different levels. You can also choose from different supplemental coverage options. Some plans offer prescription drug coverage. Original Medicare has the most basic coverage and allows you to choose a provider anywhere in the U.S.
Original Medicare is Medicare's most basic form. It covers doctor visits and medical equipment as well as mental health services and ambulance services. Original Medicare does no cover prescription drugs. However you can get coverage through Medicare Part D. Some plans offer vision and hearing coverage as well fitness programs.