Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina appreciates the dedication and sacrifice of all military personnel and for good reason.  Did you know that North Carolina is one of the leading states when it comes to enlistment rates in the Armed Forces?  In fact, the entire South Atlantic region of the United States, of which North Carolina is a part, enlists between 6.0 and 6.5 individuals per every 1000 people ages 18-24.  That amounts to a lot of soldiers, airmen, corpsmen and marines from our great state alone. (more…)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina supports preventive care maintenance, including routine physical examinations, but why is that such a big deal?  Have you ever asked yourself why an annual physical exam is so important?  Does it really matter if you visit your primary care physician once a year?  Physician Assistant Heidi Doyle, PA-C with North Hills Internal Medicine, a Duke Primary Care clinic thinks it is.  According to Doyle, “Regular check-ups are important to maintain a relationship with your doctor and to receive individualized counseling based on your family health history and your lifestyle.”

How often you need a check-up can vary and is based on age and other risk factors.  The general rule of thumb is that if you are under 30 and healthy, don’t smoke, aren’t overweight, have no disease risk factors and don’t take prescription medications, a check-up every two years may suffice.  If you are female and sexually active, however, doctors recommend an annual Pap smear screen for cervical cancer starting at age 21.  If you are age 30-40 and healthy, you may still be able to visit your doctor every other year, provided you have no specific health risks.  However, for women 40 and over, a mammogram is recommended for baseline and should be repeated every 1 to 2 years.  Once you hit age 50, an annual physical is highly recommended.  Both men and women at that age should get a colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer.

Keep in mind that any risk factor, including smoking or being overweight, escalates the importance of an annual physical, no matter how old you are.  According to Doyle, “A person with diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, or one who is simply more susceptible to those conditions, can make lifestyle changes that are much more impactful that any pill….”  Knowing the condition of your own body is imperative in making those changes and practicing preventive care maintenance.

Every human being is different, with a different family history and health concerns.  Because of that fact, there is no pat answer for every person.  Still, a regular check-up is important for the following reasons:

1.  Even healthy people get sick:  Despite the fact that you may be in great physical condition, you could have underlying health issues that need routine care.  You can’t know your cholesterol level until you have it checked and knowing you have a problem gives you the opportunity to make lifestyle changes that could reduce your risk for things like heart attack and stroke.  Cancer screenings, mammograms and colonoscopy tests also become increasingly important as we age.  Hormone levels and thyroid function also need to be evaluated.  There is truth in the old adage, “Knowledge is Power,” and when it comes to your health you want all the knowledge you can get.  Even if you feel great, it’s important for your peace of mind to make sure there are no health issues lurking beneath the surface.

2.  You smoke, drink or don’t exercise:  If you happen to have an unhealthy habit, it becomes increasingly important for you to visit your primary care physician.  Let’s face it, very few of us are never guilty of an unhealthy choice, but we can still be wise about our health.  Being in the best possible physical condition according to your lifestyle is important and seeing your doctor annually can be a big part of preventive care maintenance.

3.  Everyone in your family died young or contracted a specific disease:   The main thing to keep in mind is that family history plays a big role in your personal health.  The key is to be proactive.  If a number of your immediate family members died of heart attacks, stroke, cancer or any other illness, make sure you let your doctor know.  Being honest about family history and other habits can maximize your physician’s ability to make sure you have the information and tools you need to stay healthy.  Having a doctor you trust and maintaining that relationship through regular check-ups may become important down the road if you are a higher risk for certain illnesses.

4.  Your health is your greatest asset:  It may seem like an annual physical exam is nothing more than a nuisance, but it should be a top priority.  If you are willing to spend time, money and energy on car maintenance or cat food, you should be willing to take a little time for yourself.  Without preventive care maintenance, everything would fall apart – our cars, our homes, and our bodies.  Whether you are a man, woman or child, a regular check-up is an important part of doing what you can to take care of yourself.

There is always an excuse why we can’t visit the doctor’s office for a physical.  A busy schedule, unusual work hours, fear of needles or budget issues are among the most common.  Many Americans, however, are routinely paying for health insurance, but never use it.  If you have access to quality medical care, take advantage of it.  Your Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC health plan, includes 100% coverage for preventive care.  If you are still uninsured, look into the possibility of obtaining health coverage.  With the provisions of the Affordable Care Act, you may likely qualify for a federal subsidy to help aid in paying your monthly premium.  The bottom line is do what it takes to take care of your health.  After all, your health is your greatest asset!

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

By now, most Americans are aware of the changes instituted by the Affordable Care Act and the impact this law has had on health insurance.  Terms like “premium tax credit,” “federal subsidy,” “Health Insurance Marketplace,” and “individual mandate,” however, are still often unfamiliar to consumers now navigating a system reorganized under completely different criteria and governed by federal law.  Understanding the new terminology is paramount in understanding much of what constitutes the Affordable Care Act and is a key part of being able to successfully choose, enroll and manage a health insurance policy.

That being said, perhaps one of the most confusing aspects of the Affordable Care Act is the Special Enrollment Period and why you must have a Qualifying Life Event in order to enroll in health coverage.  Prior to the Affordable Care Act, consumers had the benefit of enrolling in individual health insurance or making changes to their existing policies at any time during the year.  On the flip side, insurers had the right to practice medical underwriting and charge more for, or deny coverage to, consumers who had serious or preexisting health conditions.  Under the new law, these conditions have changed.  Insurers may no longer ask consumers any health questions (with the exception of whether or not you are a smoker) and no consumer can be denied health insurance based on a preexisting condition; however, consumers may not enroll or make changes to their health policies whenever they choose, but are now subject to the rules of Open Enrollment, Special Enrollment and Qualifying Life Events (QLE’s).

For 2015, Open Enrollment will begin November 1st and end January 31st.  During Open Enrollment, you may purchase health insurance or make changes to your current policy for any reason.  Currently, however, we are in the Special Enrollment period, which means consumers are required by law to have a Qualifying Life Event in order to purchase insurance.  A Qualifying Life Event is some special circumstance, such as a recent move or the loss of access to minimum essential coverage, that allows the consumer to purchase insurance outside of Open Enrollment.  Although this does limit your ability to enroll in health coverage, the good news for 2015 is that the list of Qualifying Life Events has been expanded and the Healthcare Marketplace is offering more opportunities for consumers to get insured during Special Enrollment.

In order to determine whether or not you may have a Qualifying Life Event, it is important for you to take a look at the list provided on your Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health quote.  Reading the list of QLE’s will help you to determine if one of these special circumstances applies to you.  Although the process of obtaining health insurance has changed under the ACA, the expansion of these QLE’s allows you greater freedom outside of Open Enrollment to manage your current health plan or enroll a new health plan according to your life circumstances.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is committed to the physical and mental well-being of all residents of NC, including the younger ones and a big part of preventive care maintenance is managing stress.  It’s easy for adults to assume that the lives of children are virtually stress-free.  After all, kids don’t have to hold down a job, pay a mortgage, or provide for a family.  The world of children is mostly playing, resting and eating, right?  Not so fast.  There is an increasing awareness among both physicians and educators that suggests that children often experience as much, and sometimes even more, stress than the average adult.  Why is this?

We all know that stress is ultimately a result of the pressure we feel regarding our ability – physically, emotionally, financially, etc. – to meet the demands of our lives.  We feel this pressure externally from our employers, spouses, children, extended family members and friends alike.  Everyone in our lives seems to need something from us and oftentimes they all need it at the same time – right now!  This creates added pressure, which leads to stress.  But pressure also arises from internal sources and this is where the world of children is simply not immune.  Children, just like adults, have a desire to please and kids experience the same kinds of emotions we do when it comes to guilt or shame over what we believe we ought to be able to accomplish and the reality of what we are actually capable of accomplishing.  The gap between how we are and how we think we should be can be a tough place to navigate.

Ultimately, this gap can create a feeling of overwhelming pressure and even children experience it.  The pressures of trying to fit in, succeed academically, please parents and maintain a sometimes unrealistic expectation of beauty or performance all create stress in our kids.  In addition, kids these days are incredibly busy.  They are always on the go and have less and less time to play a game or read a book or talk to parents.  The constant interruption of cell phones, text messaging and Facebook chatter doesn’t help.  Simply put, the noise of our modern-day lives has increased exponentially and this affects both children and adults alike.

In addition, stress can be magnified by family problems, such as divorce or death.  Even if they aren’t speaking up, children often internalize the stress experienced by their parents.  If children overhear their parents talking about money problems, family issues, or trouble at the office, they may experience the same stress their parents are feeling related to these issues, even if they don’t completely understand the problem.  Things like world news and scrolling headlines can also add internalized stress to children’s lives, which oftentimes they don’t know how to discuss.  If your kids catch headlines about war, natural disasters, terrorism, and the like, it’s important to talk with them about what’s happening and where, as well as how it affects, or doesn’t affect, them personally.

The other thing to keep in mind is that what may seem like no big deal to your average grown-up can be grossly magnified in the eyes of a child.  Talking with kids about the things that are worrying them is an important part of helping them manage their stress.   Also remember that all children are different and have different personalities.  Some may handle stress better than others.  Some children are easygoing and may adjust to changing events and new situations very easily.  Other children are completely unsettled.  A child’s age can also affect how well they are able to manage stressful circumstances and perceived failures.  For instance, carrying a few extra pounds may be a minor issue for a six-year old girl, but a source of daily grief for a female in adolescence.

Whatever its form, if stress is too intense or lasts too long, it will eventually take its toll.  Just like in adults, stress can lead to a loss of sleep, loss of appetite, anger, depression, a drop in school grades and even behavioral issues.  When stress becomes particularly intense, it can accelerate your child’s breathing and heartbeat, constrict blood vessels, increase blood pressure and muscle tension and lead to upset stomach or headaches.  Other symptoms of stress can be illness, fatigue, nightmares, insomnia, temper tantrums, and teeth grinding.  If you think your child might be experiencing stress related symptoms, it is probably a good idea to visit your primary care physician.

The main thing to keep in mind is that children do experience stress and it warrants our attention.  Also, keep in mind that children improve in their ability to handle stress the more times they are successful in managing life challenges that come their way.  If they feel they have the ability and the emotional support of family and friends, children are also more likely to cope successfully with stress.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina understands that life can be stressful no matter how old… or young you may be.  Along with being insured, visiting your doctor regularly, eating healthy and exercising, a big part of practicing preventive care maintenance is learning to manage stress in a successful and productive way.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

As a mother of four, I can tell you that nothing is more exciting, or daunting, as the end of yet another school year.  The fact that I can lay aside daily tasks such as homework, packing lunches, and making a protein breakfast before 7:00 am offers a well-earned respite for both myself and my children.  On the other hand, facing three long months of unfilled eight hour days is also an overwhelming prospect.  I am literally haunted by the question, “what should we do today?”  Although staying in our pajamas and lazing in front of the television or computer is the easiest, and perhaps most tempting idea, I am cognizant of the fact that what’s easiest isn’t always what’s best.  In fact, studies show that sedentary kids (and moms) are very likely to experience unhealthy summer weight gain, leading to increased health problems, negative attitudes and even depression.

Summer is supposed to be full of fun activity, but if you have children you know all too well how difficult it can be to get your kids moving.  With all the allure of Facebook, YouTube, video games, cell phones and good old fashioned cable TV, it can be a serious challenge to get your children out of the house and into physical activity.  Pediatricians, physical educators, and health experts, however, all agree that too many kids are choosing to fill up their summer vacation with sedentary activities rather than with activities that require exercise and physical exertion.  Honestly, what’s a mom to do?  How can we possibly compete with the images and interactions our kids can experience without ever having to move a muscle?

If we know that the experts recommend at least 60 minutes of exercise every day, then how can we help our kids stay fit without subjecting them to the tedium of the treadmill or making them feel as if their summer is nothing more than another task filled time of life?  From one parent to another, I admit I don’t have all the answers, but here are some ideas I have collected from various sources to help us keep our kids from falling into the trap of a sedentary summer.

1.  Media-free Monday:   We all know our kids should be watching less television, less YouTube and playing less video games, but it’s tough.  One thing I’ve discovered is that if kids don’t expect to get it, they won’t be quite as disappointed.  Instituting one day a week where media is simply off limits not only manages expectations, it also gets kids thinking about other things they can do to make summer enjoyable.  Starting the week off with a day that requires kids to think outside the box can actually set you up for success for the rest of the week.  Make it fun, make it challenging and let your kids know that there are six other days of the week when media can be a part of their day.  I once read that it’s not what we are doing while watching TV that’s dangerous, it’s what we’re NOT doing.  It’s surprising what you can accomplish or create or learn in an eight hour day when media is simply off the table.

2.  Set Physical Fitness Goals:  One summer, I offered my children $25 a piece if they completed a physical fitness challenge.  That summer, one of my children learned to ride her bike and another worked his way up to doing 25 push-ups in a row.  Goals are important and as a mother, I am happy to invest a little money in my children’s physical health.  Perhaps set the goal of being able to swim 10 laps without stopping, or find a 5K and offer a small reward to the child who completes it.  Teaching our children now that exercise is important will be worth it’s weight in gold further down the road when we’ve raised healthy, physically active adults.

3.  Exercise Together:  Let’s face it, kids aren’t the only ones who struggle with laziness, especially after an eight hour day at the office.  The nice part about summer is that the days are longer.  Take advantage of those summer evenings, when it’s still light outside, but not quite as hot, by making after dinner a time when your family gets outside.  Take a bike ride or a walk or play a game of basketball or freeze tag.  You’ll be surprised at how much more willing your kids are to exercise when you are doing it with them and who knows?  It could be you all discover you would rather be outside playing together than inside watching another rerun of Family Feud.

4.  Make a Schedule:  Although you don’t want summer to become too rigid, too much down time can also become a burden, especially for children who tend to be high achievers.  Perhaps create a modified summer schedule that factors in specific times to read, create, exercise and relax.  A variety of activities will keep your children from becoming bored and will also keep the juices flowing.  Maybe you have an artist or a chef or a musician in your home.  Summer is one of the best times to explore some of the more creative aspects of your child’s personality.  If you don’t know what to do, ask your children.  They know what they enjoy better than anyone and if you make it fun and interesting, they won’t resent having scheduled time to do things other than simply sit on the couch or stare at a screen.

5.  Keep it Simple:  Sometimes as parents we fall into the trap of believing bigger is always better, but it’s simply not true.  Although my kids love to go to specialized camps for basketball or gymnastics, they don’t want to go to camp all summer and they don’t need day after day of elaborate outings in order to be active and find enjoyment.  A simple game of soccer in the yard, throwing a Frisbee at the beach or walking to the local library can be equally, if not more, gratifying.  Make a list of 50 things you would like to do with your kids this summer that don’t cost a lot of money, but provide a lot of activity and interaction.  Not only will your kids be thrilled, I’d be willing to bet you will find that summer is a big success for the whole family.

The dangers of a sedentary summer are obvious and the experts agree.  Both adults and children need more exercise and practicing preventive care maintenance is always easier than combating health care issues.  Don’t let the prospect of long summer days with no activity defeat you.  Make a plan and make it fun.  As always, before starting any weight loss program, consult your doctor first and get his/her clearance for physical activity.  Find out if there are any issues that would affect you or your children participating in a new nutrition and fitness program.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Between web generated quotes, online applications, automatic bill pay and the healthcare Marketplace, you may be wondering why in the world you would even need an insurance agent.  When so much can be accomplished right over the phone or online, is there really any benefit to contacting a BCBSNC health insurance agency and what can we possibly do to make purchasing insurance a simpler and more satisfying experience?  Although it may seem counter intuitive, the truth is that despite all of the technology and all the companies and agencies involved now in purchasing health insurance, the process is actually more complicated than ever.

The Affordable Care Act alone has added so many pieces to the insurance puzzle that it can leave your head spinning just trying to determine who is eligible to purchase health insurance and when, let alone who qualifies for a federal subsidy and what determines eligibility.  Open Enrollment, Special Enrollment, Qualifying Life Events, Premium Tax Credits, Subsidies, Tax Penalties, Cost Share Reduction Benefits and so on are only some of the new terms that now have a profound impact on your health insurance policy and how you go about applying for and purchasing it.

In addition, even though these terms can be researched online and applications completed through various websites and phone lines, the process of purchasing health insurance can be overwhelming even for the most well-versed among us.  We all know what a huge difference there is between knowing a fact and understanding how that fact impacts our lives on a personal and financial level.  That is the very reason we hire attorneys, accountants, doctors and contractors.  We rely on the expertise of those whose job it is to understand their various industry and guide us in making the best decisions based on their professional experience and understanding.  Health insurance is no different!  In fact, more than ever before it is important, if not imperative, to consult a health insurance professional before purchasing a health plan.

And that’s where Jerry Ballard and Associates can help.  The good news is that unlike hiring an attorney, accountant, doctor or contractor there is no fee associated with contacting our office.  In fact, having an insurance agent does not impact the cost of your health plan in any way.  All it does is allow you the opportunity to have a personal contact person at your disposal to help explain the process, discuss the plans and determine subsidy eligibility and how obtaining a federal tax credit can impact the cost of your health insurance premium.

At Jerry Ballard and Associates, it is our pleasure to provide the professional guidance you need when purchasing health insurance either on or off the federal Marketplace.  It is our desire to make the application process as painless as possible and help you determine whether a subsidized or unsubsidized plan is the best choice for you and your family.  We will discuss your options in detail, making sure you are 100% comfortable with the BCBSNC health plan you choose prior to enrollment and we will then follow up to make sure your plan is properly processed and that you know how and when to make your payment.

Having an insurance agent is important and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina understands that personalized service is always in your best interest.  In truth, having an agent is one of the great benefits that is available to you when you purchase a BCBSNC health plan.  Don’t let health insurance overwhelm you and don’t make important decisions about your health coverage without fully understanding your choices and the implications of your choices.  At Jerry Ballard and Associates, we are determined to help you through the process from start to finish!

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Getting a Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC health insurance quote has never been easier, or more mobile!  In fact, if you have an I-phone, you can get your quote, fill out an application and enroll your BCBSNC health plan in a matter of minutes.  At Jerry Ballard and Associates, we understand you are on-the-go and may not have time to sit down at your home computer.  You want the ease and convenience of handling personal business from your mobile device.  Perhaps you are like many of our clients who travel for much of the work week and who appreciate being able to generate a quote or fill out an application without excess hassle or frustration.  Now you can!

To access our Mobile Application, simply Google us at nchealthplans.com.  From there, you can generate your health quote, view the Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC plans available to you, estimate your subsidy eligibility, start and complete your application and enroll your new coverage.  For short term health insurance, you can view temporary health plans and generate a personalized quote.  Or, if you are looking for Dental coverage or a Medicare Supplement, you can get a quote for that as well.  In fact, you can complete an application for health or dental insurance in a few short minutes.  The bottom line is that getting health insurance has never been simpler.

Accessibility is one of the nicest parts of living in a high-tech world and Jerry Ballard and Associates offers you just that.  Despite all of the new information and additional steps the Affordable Care Act may have added to the process of purchasing health insurance, it is our desire to make your experience as easy and satisfying as possible.  Customer service is our number one concern and although we may not be able to eliminate all of the red tape, we can offer you access to all the information you will need to make an informed decision right at your fingertips.  Check out our Mobile App and see just how easy it can be to enroll your Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC health plan.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Do you find yourself feeling drowsy during the work day?  Is it sometimes difficult to keep your eyes open while driving?  Maybe you are one of the many Americans reaching for that fourth of fifth cup of coffee in the afternoon just to keep yourself alert and awake.  If so, you may be experiencing sleep deprivation.  Although the amount of sleep a person needs depends on a number of varying factors, including age, many experts agree that if you are experiencing frequent drowsiness, you are probably not getting enough sleep.

As it turns out, sleep is as important to our health as diet or exercise and not getting enough sleep can have just as many adverse effects on our bodies as overeating or being sedentary.  In fact, sleep deprivation can lead to many serious health issues such as memory problems, depression and a weakening of the immune system.  Having a weakened immune system will increase your risk of becoming sick as well as increase your perception of pain.  In addition, getting too little sleep creates what some experts call a “sleep debt,” which is similar to having a bank account that is overdrawn.  This sleep debt occurs because the amount of sleep a person needs increases as the days with too little sleep increase.  In this way, there is an exponential increase in the amount of overall exhaustion a person may feel when he or she is not sleeping enough.  Eventually, your body will demand you pay this debt and although we may get accustomed to getting less sleep than we need, our judgement, reaction time and other functions will still be impaired and our immune systems will be compromised.

If you find yourself drowsing while driving, be advised.  Driver fatigue is responsible for an estimated 100,000 motor vehicle accidents each year, many resulting in fatalities (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration).  Although many of us try to combat this drowsiness by ingesting large amounts of caffeine, neither caffeine nor other stimulants can truly overcome the effects of sleep deprivation.  If you are having trouble keeping your eyes focused, if you can’t stop yawning, if you can’t remember driving the last few miles or you are having trouble holding your head up, you are too tired to drive and the only thing that will cure you is rest.

Let’s face it, Americans are productive people.  We work long, hard hours and also want to be involved with family and friends.  We work in our yards and in our homes and spend our weekends playing with kids or hanging out with neighbors.  We are busy people and sometimes even feel guilty for falling asleep early or taking a much needed nap.  Sleep deprivation, however, is an increasing concern among medical professionals.  In order to determine if you are getting enough sleep consider the following:

• Infants require 14-15 hours of sleep a day
• Teenagers need 8.5-9.5 hours of a sleep a day
• Most adults need 7-9 hours of sleep a day, with women requiring more sleep than men
• Pregnant women may need several more hours of sleep than normal

If you are one of the many Americans who simply aren’t sleeping enough ask yourself why and make some adjustments.  Perhaps you could turn off the television and go to bed earlier.  Possibly sleep later on the weekends or days when you do not have to work.  Schedule in a nap on the days that allow.   Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC knows the power of prevention.  This year make a commitment to eat healthier, exercise regularly and sleep a little more.  Whatever it takes, make sleep a top priority and a part of your preventive health care regimen.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Are you one of the many Americans who missed Open Enrollment 2015?  Despite your best efforts, did February 15th come and go and still you are uninsured?  Perhaps you even missed, or did not qualify for, the Special Enrollment period that was in place until April 30th for those individuals who received a tax penalty on their 2014 tax return.  If so, you are not wholly out of luck, though there are some things you should keep in mind.

Because we are now in the Special Enrollment Period, the rules regarding Qualifying Life Events are in full force.  A Qualifying Life Event (QLE) is some special circumstance in your life that allows you to enroll in health insurance outside of Open Enrollment.  As of now, the federal Marketplace has not announced any further exception to the rules of QLE’s, which simply means that you must have one in order to enroll in a health plan.  It is a good idea to review the full list of Qualifying Life Events and if you have one, or if you anticipate having one in the near future, then that will serve as your opportunity to get insured.  Keep in mind that you must complete an application for health insurance within 60 days of your Qualifying Life Event.

Another thing to note is that if you are uninsured for more than three consecutive months during 2015, you will incur a tax penalty on your next year’s tax return, unless you qualify for an exemption.  It is also a good idea to take a look at the list of exemptions and who might qualify.

Finally, keep in mind that being insured is about so much more than incurring a tax penalty.  It’s about having the coverage you need in case of a medical emergency and also about maintaining your physical and mental health through preventive care maintenance.  Further, having to pay a tax penalty is like throwing your hard earned money out the window because you get nothing in return.  On the other hand, although paying a monthly premium for health insurance may seem like a financial frustration, in the end it is money well spent.  Your most precious commodity is your health and making an investment toward it is always a smart decision.

If you are still uninsured and do not foresee having a QLE in the next few months, you may still qualify for Short Term Coverage.  Although not ideal in most circumstances and though it will not offer you the same level of benefits as an individual health plan, Short Term Coverage can be an effective way to fill in the gap between now and this year’s Open Enrollment which begins in November.  Short term coverage has some limitations and will not save you from the tax penalty in that it does not meet the Affordable Care Act’s 10 essential requirements, but it is still better than having no coverage in case of a medical emergency.

The bottom line is you do have options.  Although you may not be able to secure your first choice in health plans outside of Open Enrollment, you can be insured in the interim.  Also, this is a great time to begin doing research about the Affordable Care Act, what subsidy might be available to you and how that subsidy might affect your federal income tax.  Use this time to research the various health plans available to you and also what kind of network works best for you and your family.  Open Enrollment begins again in November, which believe it or not, is only 5 months away.  Even if you cannot obtain coverage during Special Enrollment, this is a great time to arm yourself with all the information and knowledge you will need to make the very best choice possible come Open Enrollment.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC is committed to helping the residents of North Carolina secure and maintain the health coverage you need.  For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina wishes you a Happy Cinco de Mayo celebration!  Remember as part of your preventive health care to drink responsibly, eat healthy, exercise regularly and take some time to enjoy friends and family. Most of my childhood and early adult life were spent somewhere between Dallas, Texas and San Diego, California where Cinco de Mayo is as important a day as Super Bowl Sunday in terms of celebration.  Cinco de Mayo, which is Spanish for “fifth of May” is celebrated in the United States and in Mexico, primarily in the Mexican state of Puebla, where the holiday originated and is referred to as The Day of the Battle of Puebla.  The date is observed in commemoration of the Mexican army’s surprising defeat of French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862 where General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguin led his troops to victory.  Sometimes mistaken for Mexican Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 16th, Cinco de Mayo is a day of pride for Mexicans and Mexican-Americans alike.

In truth, Cinco de Mayo is an historically significant holiday and one that has become increasingly important in the United States over the years.  Californians have consistently celebrated this holiday since 1863, even when the holiday was virtually overlooked in Mexico itself, and Cinco de Mayo celebrations became trendy during the 1940’s during the rise of the Chicano movement.  During the 1980’s, marketers, especially beer companies, jumped on the bandwagon and began promoting the holiday in full force, making it widely popular in major cities throughout the United States.  Celebrations typically emphasize Mexican cuisine, culture, music and drink.

Much like St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo has become a holiday that invites a celebration with friends and family.  Tacos, salsa, corn chips and guacamole are only a few of the tasty treats that make celebrating this Mexican holiday fun for everyone.  We found this recipe for a healthier version of guacamole from People Magazine and we think you will agree that it is not only delicious, but also guilt-free.  With only 73 calories and 4 g. of fat, each 1/4 cup of this guacamole contains 4 g. of protein and 2.5 g. of dietary fiber.  Easy to make and full of good nutrition, Hungry Girl’s Southwest Guiltless Guacamole Dip is sure to be a Cinco de Mayo favorite.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. mashed avocados (2 small avocados)
• 1 cup fat free plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp. lime juice
• 3/4 tsp. chili powder
• 3/4 tsp. garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 2 Tbs. finely chopped cilantro

Directions:

1.  Combine avocado, yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder and salt in a small bowl.  Mix until smooth

2.  Stir in black beans, pepper, onion and cilantro

3.  Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve

BCBSNC knows that preventive care is the most important step in ensuring both your physical and mental well-being.  For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

With all of the changes in the health insurance industry under the Affordable Care Act and an overall increase in the cost of health insurance for consumers, you may be wondering exactly what your monthly premium pays for and where all of that money goes.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is happy to answer that question.  As most people already know, your health insurance premium is part of a large pool of money collected by the insurance company, which is then distributed in the form of health care claims to those in need of medical care.  A portion of that pool of money pays for health care and a portion goes toward operating the insurance company itself and creating a profit.  The question most people have is how much of that money actually goes toward claims and how much is simply profit for the company.

Recently, BCBSNC announced that they spend almost 86 cents of every premium dollar to pay for customers’ health care needs, including visits to the doctor’s office, surgeries, diagnostic tests, prescriptions, contact lenses, etc.  In fact, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC paid $5 billion dollars in claims in 2013 alone, making that $5 billion dollars worth of coverage directly benefiting BCBSNC customers.  In addition, there is non-medical spending that still directly affects BCBSNC members in a positive way.  Non-medical expenditures include things like customer service and technology improvements, which provide customers with the most up-to-date, user friendly website and an exceptional customer service experience.

Even further, under the Affordable Care Act there now exists what is called the Medical Loss Ratio Requirement.  This requirement prevents insurance companies from engaging in excessive spending on administration, salaries and other business costs.  Insurance companies are now required to use 80 cents of every premium dollar collected from individual and small group customers to pay customer claims and support quality of care.  Even before the law, however, BCBSNC exceeded that standard, and in 2012 they paid $260 million dollars more toward health care expenses than was required under the law.  This requirement also means that insurance companies cannot increase rates simply as a way to increase profits, but must maintain a minimum percentage of dollars spent on health care or refund that money to customers.

Let’s face it, the cost of health insurance is on the rise and it can be a strain on any income.  Understanding where your insurance premium goes is an important part of understanding your health insurance plan and what makes it valuable.  Although it may be tough to pay out a few hundred dollars a month, when the need for medical care arises, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is there to make sure you and your family are covered.

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.

This may come as a surprise, but did you know that spicy food may actually help relieve the symptoms of spring allergies?  It’s true.  What we eat can actually irritate or alleviate some of those allergy symptoms that may be keeping us up at night.  Whereas some foods, such as wine, processed meat and aged cheeses contain high concentrations of histamine, which may provoke allergic symptoms, spicy ingredients, such as cayenne pepper, onions and garlic can help thin mucus and clear nasal passages, offering much needed relief.  This recipe for Spinach Enchiladas fits that bill exactly and may be just what the doctor ordered this spring, whether you suffer from spring allergies or not.

The recipe uses Monterey Jack cheese instead of aged Cheddar and also incorporates spinach into your diet.  Spinach is rich in Vitamin C, E and beta carotine which help combat high blood pressure and reduce your risk of osteoporosis.  In addition, 1 cup of spinach contains 20% of your recommended daily allowance of fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain low blood sugar and curbs overeating.  Perhaps most importantly, spinach contains high amounts of flavanoid, a phytonutrient with with anti-cancer properties.  In short, spinach is a super food and what better way to eat it than in enchiladas?

These delicious and nutritious enchiladas require only 20 minutes of prep. time and another 20 minutes in the oven, giving you a healthy and tasty meal in just 40 minutes.  Give this recipe a try and we think you will discover how good it is to add a little spice to your spring!

For more information on Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health insurance coverage, the Marketplace and healthcare gov  to apply for your subsidy, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.  Let us help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obama care.