North Carolina residents have many options when it comes to health insurance. Whether you don't currently have coverage or you are unemployed, there are many options available to you. You don't have to risk your health without coverage. The ability to have health insurance can help prevent you from being left without cover and incurring huge medical bills.
North Carolina health insurance costs
The cost of North Carolina health insurance is relatively low in comparison to other states. However, the costs vary from one county or another. North Carolina's average cost for health insurance is $6,352 per individual and $25,408 per household. This is $629 lower than 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 dominates North Carolina's individual insurance market. It controls almost ninety-seven per cent of the state's market. According to federal data, North Carolinians paid less for their health insurance in 2021 than in 2019. North Carolina has one of the highest proportions of enrollees that received subsidies and premium tax credits. In fact, 93% of North Carolina residents received some form of subsidy to help lower the cost of their coverage. North Carolinians received a higher average monthly subsidy than other Americans. North Carolina's average monthly subsidy amount was $568 in comparison to the $491 national median.
Exclusions of pre-existing medical conditions
North Carolina's individual health insurance policies have exclusions that apply to pre-existing medical conditions. If the policyholder had creditable coverage in the past, this exclusion may be reduced. If coverage was in place within six months prior to the date of the policy starting, it is considered creditable.
Prior to the Affordable Care Act, insurers could deny coverage or charge higher premiums for people with certain health conditions. This was not always the case. A survey showed that almost a quarter of all individuals who had pre-existing conditions were denied insurance coverage or charged more. In addition, 54 percent of people with individual market insurance were concerned about dropping coverage due to pre-existing conditions.
Premiums
In North Carolina, the 2018 average premium to purchase a family plan for health insurance was $18,211. This compares to $12,000 in 2008. However, premiums are not equally distributed between counties. North Carolinians covered by employer-sponsored medical insurance paid nearly 14 percent of the median income for their state, as compared to just over 11 percent in 2008. In comparison, the average American spent 8% of their income in 2008 on health care, and 11.5% in 2018.
Americans now have access to affordable health insurance through the Affordable Care act. Individuals can purchase North Carolina health insurance through the Affordable Care Act's Health Insurance Marketplace for as low as $600 per month. 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.
Short-term plans
You can bridge the gap between your regular insurance and short term coverage with short-term plans. These plans are beneficial for those who are new parents, early retirees, or simply looking to increase their coverage. Short-term plans often have fewer requirements than standard insurance. It's important that you compare each plan's features. 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 are aimed at replacing individual health insurance policies, and can last up to 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
If you're a senior in North Carolina, you may be eligible for Medicare coverage. There are several different plans available to choose from, and they are usually tiered, with different levels of coverage. There are also a variety of supplemental coverage options and some plans include prescription drug coverage. Original Medicare, which provides the most basic coverage, allows you choose a provider anywhere within the U.S.
Original Medicare is the most basic form of Medicare, and it covers doctor visits, mental health services, ambulance services, and durable medical equipment. 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.