Health Insurance, Explained the Way We'd Explain It to Our Own Family

Medicare Advantage vs. Medicare Supplement in North Carolina — which is better?

It depends on how you use your coverage and how often you travel or see specialists. Medicare Advantage plans typically have lower monthly premiums but include networks and cost-sharing. Medicare Supplement plans cover most of what original Medicare doesn't, giving you more predictable out-of-pocket costs. We cover this comparison in depth in our Medicare guides — and we're happy to walk through it with you directly.

How do I choose a health insurance plan in North Carolina?

Start with three questions: What doctors do you want to keep? What prescriptions do you take? And what can you realistically pay each month versus out-of-pocket when you need care? From there, you can narrow the field significantly. If you're shopping through the marketplace, an independent agent can compare options at no cost to you.

What is Medigap and do I need it?

Medigap is another name for Medicare Supplement insurance. It fills the gaps that original Medicare leaves behind — copays, coinsurance, and deductibles that can add up quickly if you use your coverage regularly. Whether you need it depends on your health, your budget, and how much unpredictability you're comfortable with. Our Medicare Supplement page walks through the basics.

What are my health insurance options if I'm self-employed in North Carolina?

Self-employed individuals can shop marketplace plans through HealthCare.gov during open enrollment, or in some cases qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. Depending on your income, you may be eligible for premium tax credits that make a health insurance plan more affordable than you'd expect. We work with a lot of independent contractors and small business owners in North Carolina — it's one of the most common conversations we have.