North Carolina offers some of the most diverse and beautiful landscapes in the continental United States and this spring, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC encourages you to get outdoors!  BCBSNC understands the importance of preventive health care, which is why preventive care benefits covered at 100% are a part of every Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC health plan.  The benefits of regular outdoor activity are indisputable.  Not only are there physical benefits, such as aerobic, cardiovascular and muscular fitness, improved functioning of the immune system, lower blood pressure, weight loss and reduced arthritis pain, there are also a number of psychological and environmental benefits as well.  Being outdoors is good for the mind in that it can reduce stress, improve self-esteem and aid in fighting depression.  Even further, the Vitamin D our bodies absorb from moderate exposure to sunlight is also vital for an overall sense of mental health and physical well-being.  In addition, regular outdoor activity can also increase environmental awareness, keeping us more in touch with our world and more inclined to care for our planet.

Personally, I grew up in Texas and one of the things I most appreciate about North Carolina is the geography.  Texas is such a huge state that it literally takes days to get from the Gulf of Mexico to the greener landscapes of the Panhandle or the drier, desert climate of El Paso.  Residents of NC, however, don’t have the same problem.  We can enjoy the cool beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and then drive but a few short hours to enjoy the warm waters of the Crystal Coast.

In fact, this spring you don’t even need a gym to get moving and improve your health.  North Carolina has some of the best hiking trails in the United States so take advantage of those mountains.  When the summer heat becomes too much to handle, plan a day or two in the mountains where you can walk and hike with ease, while enjoying breathtaking views.  Walking and hiking are an excellent source of cardiovascular exercise and will help keep your heart healthy all year long.

Or if you prefer, head down to the ocean.  For more strenuous exercise, go surfing or paddle boarding.  Both of these water sports engage all of your muscle groups and will help build both strength and agility.  For a more relaxed approach, go jogging or take a walk on the beach.  Walking or running in the sand is a moderately strenuous exercise that can build muscle strength and endurance.  Beach exercise is not only fun and relaxing, it is a great way to enjoy the outdoors while taking in the sun and surf.

The main thing to remember this spring is don’t get stuck indoors!  There are so many benefits to outdoor exercise and so many ways to enjoy the great outdoors and the beauty of North Carolina.  Of course, before starting any weight loss or exercise program, always consult your doctor first and get his/her clearance for physical activity.  Find out if there are any issues that would affect you participating in a new nutrition and fitness program.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina understands the benefits of preventive care and taking care of your physical health and mental well-being.  Discover why it pays to be a Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC member.  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.

Managing your health can be tricky, but there are some things you can do to make a big difference in the cost of your overall health care.  Although this list is not exhaustive, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina offers some great tips on how you can help keep the cost of health care to a minimum.  Whether you are enrolled in one of many popular plans, including Blue Advantage, Blue Value or Blue Select, the following management tips can help you maximize your plan’s coverage and minimize your plan’s cost.

1.  See your primary care physician first:  Typically, primary care doctors offer a variety of important services and usually cost less than more expensive specialists.  Your primary care physician is also more acquainted with your health history and is better equipped to help guide you should you be in need of more specialized care.

2.  Stay in network:  Choosing an in-network provider is of utmost importance as it will help reduce your out-of-pocket expense.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC offers a convenient Find a Doctor tool that will allow you to research whether your particular doctor is a part of the BCBSNC network.

3.  Determine if you have an emergency:  For situations that are non-life-threatening, urgent care facilities will often save you both time and money.  If you do have an emergency, you should always call 911 or visit the closest emergency room, but for less serious illnesses and injuries an urgent care doctor may be your best choice.

4.  Read your benefit book:  Although not the most exciting book you may read this year, it could be among the most important.  Understanding how your plan’s benefits work will help you avoid unexpected costs and reading your booklet or contacting a benefit specialist can save you big bucks.

5.  Talk to a nurse first:  As a BCBSNC member, you can call Health Line Blue 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to speak with a specially trained nurse and ask questions before you visit your health care provider.  Discussing your symptoms with a nurse or even your own physician first can help you determine if an appointment to your doctor’s office is necessary or not.

6.  Ask questions:  Very often, the billing department at your provider’s office can tell you the exact cost of a procedure or service before you have it.  This can help you avoid unexpected fees.

7.  Practice preventive care:  With every Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health plan, preventive care maintenance is covered at 100% so take advantage of those benefits.  Regular check-ups and immunizations go a long way in helping you to stay healthy.

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.

The sun is shining, the air is warm and breezy, birds are chirping and flowers are blooming.  Spring has finally sprung and with it, an onslaught of seasonal allergies.  As much as we may love this time of year, we don’t love the runny nose, itchy eyes and other symptoms that often accompany the coming of spring.  As the trees start to bloom and the pollen is released, an estimated 35 million Americans fall prey to seasonal allergies and their annoying effects.  Although there is no real cure for spring allergy sufferers, there are some ways you can combat seasonal allergies through medication and lifestyle habits.

The number one cause of spring allergies is pollen, and if you live in North Carolina, you probably knew this already.  Every year, porches, cars and driveways are literally covered in a dusty yellow layer of annoying pollen.  Basically, pollen consists of tiny grains that are released into the air by trees, grasses and weeds and believe it or not, pollen actually serves a purpose.  It is vital for the fertilization of other plants, which is what makes spring so verdant and beautiful.  However, when pollen grains get into the nose of someone who is susceptible to spring allergies, it can cause serious trouble in the immune system, which sees the pollen as foreign invaders and releases antibodies.  Antibodies are the things our bodies produce to attack allergens and this leads to the release of chemicals called histamines into the blood stream.  Histamines are what ultimately trigger that runny nose or itchy eyes.

As you may well know, the higher the pollen count, the greater the suffering for those susceptible to spring allergies and pollen can travel for miles.  Most local weather channels actually make a note of the pollen count in your area during the daily forecast, which may help you determine how symptomatic you are going to be that day.  Allergy symptoms are especially high on windy days as the pollen travels through the air further and faster and the pollen count is usually highest in the morning.  Inversely, rainy days can actually lower the pollen count as the rain washes away the allergens.  Perhaps for allergy sufferers, enjoying an occasional spring rain is in order as it can offer some well needed relief.

The most common symptoms of spring allergies include runny nose, watery or itchy eyes, sneezing, coughing and dark circles underneath the eyes (possibly because it’s harder to sleep when you are coughing and sneezing).  Although it is impossible to completely avoid spring allergies if you live in a place where trees and grasses abound, you can ease your symptoms by avoiding your main allergy triggers, such as mold or pollen.

Some ways to combat spring allergies include:

• Staying indoors whenever the pollen count is high
• Keeping your doors and windows closed during spring months to keep allergens out of your home or car
• Cleaning air filters in your home and keeping surface areas clean where pollen may collect
• Washing your hair after going outside
• Vacuuming at least twice a week; however, you may need to wear a mask when you vacuum because vacuuming can stir up pollen and other allergens trapped in your carpet

Keep in mind that although spring allergies are not particularly dangerous, they can trigger more serious conditions such as asthma.  If you are suffering from allergens, it may be time to take advantage of your health plan and see your health care provider.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC is committed to the health and wellness of North Carolina residents, which is why with a BCBSNC health plan, visiting your doctor is easy and affordable with preventive care services covered at 100%.  If your allergies are causing other more serious side effects, don’t wait to see your primary care physician.

Although spring is one of the loveliest times of year, it can be a drain on the health of those suffering from spring allergies.  Keep in mind, however, that despite the pollen in the air it is important for your health to stay active.  Even if you have to take your walk in the rain, don’t let spring allergies keep you trapped indoors.  This spring, combat your allergy symptoms while still taking time to enjoy as much of the beautiful weather as possible!

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.

WebMD Medical Reference

We all know that choosing to drink a soda over a glass of water is not the best choice, but there is something so addictive about those sugary bubbles and soda is sometimes hard to resist.  Because soda is an addiction, however, there are some things we think you should know about how soda affects your body.  Similar to smoking or drinking alcohol, it feels good to consume soda.  Unfortunately, an increasing amount of research is beginning to decry the negative effects of soda consumption, especially if you drink it on a regular basis.  In fact, evidence shows that your health will likely improve dramatically once you begin choosing a cool glass of water over a Coke or even a Diet Pepsi as almost every organ in the human body responds negatively to the consumption of soda.  Take a look at how soda affects these vital organs and we think you will agree… it may be time to quit.

Heart:  A 2012 Harvard University study determined that consuming sugary drinks significantly increases a person’s risk of chronic heart disease and participants in the study who drank the most soda were 20% more likely to have a heart attack.  In other words, choosing to drink water instead of soda is one of the best things you can do for one of the most vital organs in your body.  Another similar study published in 2011 discovered that sugary beverages raise blood pressure as well and the increase has a direct link to the amount of soda you consume.  If you want to be heart healthy, soda is off the menu.

Bladder:  Because soda is a diuretic, it will make your bladder work harder, causing you to urinate more frequently and urgently.  Soda can irritate your bladder as well, leading to an increase in bladder or urinary tract infections.  Drinking clear fluids, like water or seltzer water, will keep your bladder cleaner, allowing it to function better.

Bones:  If you want strong and healthy bones, giving up soda is step number 1.  Soda can weaken bone health and increase your risk of osteoporosis.  In addition, the less soda you drink, the more milk you may drink and such calcium rich drinks actually benefit your bones, making you stronger and healthier.

Kidneys:  Studies have shown that drinking a lot of soda can increase your risk of kidney disease and even ultimately increase your risk of renal failure.  Diet sodas are just as damaging and researchers from the Nurses’ Health Study found that women who drank a substantial amount of diet soda every day had decreased liver function compared to women who did not drink soda at all.  Bottom line:  your kidneys don’t need all the sugary soda and don’t know how to process it.

Weight Loss:  If strong and healthy organs aren’t enough to convince you to quit drinking soda, would you believe that cutting soda from your diet is one of the easiest ways to lose weight?  According to certain weight loss experts, dropping just one large Coke from your diet a day could reduce your annual caloric intake by over 200,000 calories.  This is the equivalent of losing 60 lbs. of weight – in just one year!  Even diet soda drinkers run the risk of weight gain, so don’t be fooled.  Some studies have shown that there is a possible link between diet soda and increased appetite, leading to increased weight gain.  Either way, the evidence is clear.  A good way to overcome being overweight is to replace your daily soda with water.

For those of us who love our soda, quitting can be just as hard as quitting smoking or letting go of other addictive behaviors and substances.  The benefits, however, are indisputable.  Losing the soda in your diet will not only help you feel better, it will help you live better… and living better is always the best choice.

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.

Despite the current Administration’s push to make health insurance a top priority, according to a recent Gallup Poll study, North Carolina ranks among the states that still have the greatest population of uninsured residents. In fact, NC had an uninsured rate of 16.1 percent in 2014, ranking it among the top five states in the nation with the greatest amount of residents who still have no health insurance.  Although many residents in 2014 did take advantage of the Affordable Care Act, purchasing subsidized health plans through the federal Marketplace, a large portion of the population did not.

Changes in the law regarding health insurance as well as changes in state programs such as Medicaid have created quite a stir in the last few months and left many North Carolina residents scratching their heads wondering what to do.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is committed to helping residents of NC obtain quality, cost efficient health coverage both on and off the federal Marketplace.  In fact, every Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health plan is ACA (Affordable Care Act) approved and offers the 10 essential benefits required under the law.  In addition, BCBSNC has a wide variety of health plans available on the Exchange for members who qualify for a federal subsidy.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina has an uncontested presence in the state, providing accessible networks in all 100 counties in NC.  Furthermore, unlike other insurance companies offering subsidized plans on the Marketplace, BCBSNC plans are not HMO’s, meaning you will still have coverage even if you happen to go out of network.

With or without the law and the tax penalties associated with being uninsured under the Affordable Care Act, living without health insurance is never a good idea.  Life happens and even the healthiest and most cautious among us can’t control the unexpected.  BCBSNC wants to make sure the residents of North Carolina are covered for routine preventive care and also in case of medical emergency.  Experience the benefits of being a Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC member and help make North Carolina among the nation’s leaders in insured residents.

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.

The use of specialty medications has increased significantly over the last few years.  In order to ensure that these specialty medications continue to be affordable to its members, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC contracted with a network of pharmacies dedicated to offering lower pricing on specialty drugs.  By implementing a specialty pharmacy network, BCBSNC is working to see that the cost of prescription drugs remain affordable.

Specialty medications are those medications that are used for chronic diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.  What qualifies a specific medication or therapy to be classified as a specialty drug is not clearly defined, but there are some parameters.  The following factors help determine if a pharmaceutical is considered a specialty medication:  the medication requires special handling; the medication has limited distribution and can only be filled at certain pharmacies; the medication treats a rare disease; the medication requires ongoing clinical assessment and monitoring of side effects.  See a list of some specialty medications.

Because these drugs are in the “specialty” category, they are typically high-cost medications, ranging anywhere from $6000 to $350,000 per patient, per year.  Most of these drugs are made to be injected and many of them require special handling and shipping.  Still, these drugs are of utmost importance to the patients in need of them, and that is why Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina established the specialty pharmacy network.  With this network, there may be a limited number of pharmacies dispensing these medications and some pharmacies may choose not to participate in the specialty drug network.  If you require one of these specialty drugs, you will need to transfer your prescription to a participating local pharmacy or mail order pharmacy.

By limiting the network, the cost of the specialty medications remain more affordable; however, if you fill your specialty medications at a retail pharmacy, you must use one of the pharmacies participating in this network in order for your prescriptions to be covered.  All specialty pharmacies within this network offer next day delivery with a valid prescription or prescription transfer and refills can take place after 75% of the prescription is used, except in the instance of controlled substances.    Members can contact their specialty pharmacy directly to set up a new prescription and that process usually takes between 2 and 4 business days.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is committed to making sure you have the prescription drug coverage you need at a cost you can afford.  To determine whether any of the medications you are currently taking are considered “specialty drugs,” visit the Find a Drug link or get a quote for 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.

“Food, if chosen well, can reshape our medical destinies for the better.”

– David Katz, MD, Director of the Yale Prevention Research Center

Time to shake off the snowflakes and start gearing up for spring!  If you are looking for easy and delicious ways to improve your mood, energy level, skin tone and brain power, these super foods may be just what the doctor ordered.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina knows that a little prevention goes a long way and the following list of spring foods can add a punch of flavor to your favorite meals while working to give your body the nutrients it needs to feel great and function well.

Mood:  Looking to bring balance and serenity to your springtime?  Try these two tasty options to help improve your mood.

Walnuts:  Walnuts are one of nature’s secret stress relievers.  Full of tryptophan, an amino acid that creates seratonin, walnuts will improve not only your mood, but can also help cultivate emotional balance.  Because they are digested slowly, walnuts can help your body stabilize and give it what it needs to tolerate stress.  Try adding these to the top of your salad for a little extra crunch or eat them dipped in peanut butter for a satisfying snack.

Asparagus:  Asparagus is one of the best vegetables for adding folate to your diet.  Folate is very important for pregnant women, but also for everyone because it helps synthesize dopamine, seratonin and nerepinephrine, all of which are important chemicals our bodies release to help us “feel good.”  If you find yourself in need of a mood swing this spring, try drizzling a mixture of butter, soy sauce and balsamic vinegar over the top of some fresh asparagus spears and bake them for 12 minutes at 400 degrees.  We think you will love this delicious way to improve your mood!

Energy Level:  Looking to put some spring back into your step?  Below are two great foods to give you the boost you need.

Spinach:  Spinach is a great source of iron, which is a key component in the red blood cells that fuel our muscles with oxygen and energy.  The compounds found in spinach leaves actually increase the energy producing factories inside our blood cells, making our bodies feel awake and alive.  This green-leafy vegetable is delicious in salads and also sauteed in olive olive oil.  Adding fresh spinach to quiche or scrambled eggs will not only add color and texture to your plate, but will also help you start your day off right.

Artichokes:  Artichokes are an often overlooked vegetable, but they are literally loaded with magnesium, which helps to generate energy in the body.  If you don’t get enough magnesium, your muscles have to work harder to react and you tire more quickly.  Women especially need 320 mg. of magnesium a day and one artichoke gives you 77 mg. for only 60 calories.    Try boiling them until tender and dipping the leaves in your favorite salad dressing.  However you cook artichokes, they are a delicious and low-calorie way to help energize your day.

Skin Care:  Are the effects of cold-weather and harsh winds taking their toll on your skin?  Try these two delicious foods and see your skin tone improve!

Salmon:  Salmon is a healthy and natural way to help prevent wrinkling.  It is rich in fatty acids and omega 3’s that naturally help reduce the appearance of fine lines and sagging skin.  Omega 3’s also help regulate oil production in the skin and boost hydration, which help give your skin a natural glow and keep you free of acne and blemishes.  Whether cooking at home or eating out this spring, try choosing the salmon instead of the steak and eat your way to healthier looking skin.

Strawberries:   Strawberries are loaded with antioxidants that help your skin repair from damage caused by weather, pollution  and UV rays.  Packed with vitamin C, a vitamin associated with fewer wrinkles and less dryness, you can actually use strawberries as a natural exfoliant.  Great as a snack or used as part of a light and delicious dessert, strawberries are a girl’s (or boy’s)  best friend when it comes to spring skin care.

Memory:  Find yourself being more forgetful these days?  Here are two tasty brain foods sure to please.

Eggs:  Not only are eggs delicious, they are good for you!  And by all means, eat the yolk!  Egg yolks are full of choline, a key nutrient for recall and memory storage in the brain.  Your body needs 425 mg. of choline daily and there are 147 mg. in one large egg.  With just a couple of eggs for breakfast, you are well on your way to a healthier brain and a better memory.

Blueberries:  Blueberries may be small, but they are full of an important type of antioxidant called anthocyanis, which has been shown to increase signals among brain cells.  Blueberries can improve the brain’s resilience and enhance both learning capabilities and memory.  If you don’t like to munch on these tiny fruits, try drinking a glass of blueberry juice for breakfast.  Good in muffins, desserts, or eaten by the handful, blueberries are a springtime treat that will help you make the most of your memories.

In many ways, food is the very best medicine if used correctly and BCBSNC believes in preventive care maintenance. This spring, try eating your way to a healthier, happier, more whole you!

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.

What makes a certain doctor, hospital or medical facility better than another?  More importantly, how can you make the best choice concerning where or to whom you entrust your family’s medical care?  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina can help you answer those questions.  With Blue Distinction, you no longer have to worry about whether or not you have made the best decision regarding your healthcare needs.

Blue Distinction is a special designation awarded by Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina to certain medical facilities that have demonstrated expertise in delivering quality health care.  According to BCBSNC, the Blue Distinction designation is based on “rigorous, evidence-based selection criteria established in collaboration with expert physicians and medical organizations.”  Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC has chosen to award this distinction in order to raise the quality of healthcare delivered throughout North Carolina and to aid consumers in finding the specialty care they need at facilities which have proven to deliver better outcomes and overall greater patient satisfaction.  In other words, with Blue Distinction the research has already been done for you and you can have the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are getting the best care at the best facilities N.C. has to offer.

But how can you know which doctors and facilities have received the Blue Distinction designation?  It’s easy.  As a Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina member, you have access to a database full of important information regarding physicians, surgeons, hospitals and other healthcare providers.  As part of Blue Connect, members are able to research doctors, dentists and acute care facilities.  You can read reviews by other BCBSNC members and see whether or not a particular physician or medical institution has been awarded the Blue Distinction designation.  BCBSNC members can simply log into Blue Connect using your subscriber ID number and have a wealth of thoroughly researched information right at your fingertips.  If you are not a BCBSNC member yet, you can still research doctors and hospitals.  All you need to do is generate a quote and use the “Find a Doctor” link to get started.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is not only committed to providing quality health insurance, but also to ensuring its members have all the information they need to make the best choice possible.  Choosing a doctor or hospital is never a simple decision, but Blue Distinction makes it easier than ever.  Discover the benefits of being a BCBSNC member today.

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.

It may be a myth that cold weather actually makes you sick, but it can negatively affect your health nonetheless.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC knows that being prepared and also aware of the potential dangers of cold weather induced health risks can help you stay well even when it’s not all that warm outside.  With lower temperatures comes greater potential for all kinds of health issues, from cold and flu, to increased weight gain, indoor allergies, and possibly even depression.  According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), 5-20% of Americans are infected with flu virus each year and 200,000 are hospitalized due to complications, such as pneumonia.  Although cold weather won’t give you the flu or even the common cold, Dr. LeeAnna Lyne from Susquehanna Health Medical Group in Pennsylvania explains how cold weather affects our bodies:  “Cold weather causes decreased blood flow in the nose, ears, hands, etc., to keep the heart and brain protected.  This causes dryness and a decreased ability of the nose to filter pathogens like viruses.”  In other words, cold weather may not make you sick, but it makes you more vulnerable to becoming sick and it can also aggravate the symptoms you may already have.

Below are some good tips for staying healthy even in the coldest of temperatures:

1.  Practice cleanliness and good hygiene:  Sanitize, vaccinate, cover your mouth and wash your hands!  Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes as these areas are the most susceptible to dangerous pathogens.  Also, clean your house regularly with disinfectant and vacuum using a HEPA filter.  Wash clothes and bedding regularly.

2.  Dress for cold weather conditions:  Allowing your body to become too cold can stress your immune system and aggravate existing conditions.  Wear a  coat and don’t go outside with wet hair.  Dressing warmly can help prevent the risk of pneumonia, frostbite and hypothermia.

3.  Exercise regularly:  Cold, wet and rainy weather is not conducive to exercise, but maintaining a regular exercise routine is imperative.  Being stuck inside can create a recipe for weight gain, not to mention muscle atrophy and the lack of energy that accompany inactivity.  Staying fit ensures your immune system is ready for the fight should you encounter attacking viruses.

4.  Go outside anyway:  If at all possible, put on a winter coat and get outdoors.  Outdoor activity boosts physical health, not to mention increasing levels of Vitamin-D, reducing stress and improving mental health.  It may be chilly outside, but don’t let cold weather keep you from the benefits of being outdoors.  A lack of sunshine can trigger a chemical imbalance in the brain, leading to depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

5.  Know your limits:  Cardiac death rates increase in the cold weather months and though the reasons for this increase are not fully understood, it is believed that the physical effects of colder temperatures along with overexertion may play a key role.  Older people and people with preexisting health issues need to understand limits and be willing to ask for help. Even those in optimal health need to take more frequent breaks.

When it comes to staying healthy, colder temperatures require extra precaution.  Preventive care maintenance is something Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina takes very seriously, offering preventive care coverage at 100%.  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.

Valentine’s Day is all about sweet treats, but if eating healthier is one of your resolutions for 2015, this recipe is sure to please.   Almost nothing tastes better than nice, juicy strawberries and we think this is a delicious way to say, “I love you.”  This yummy treat only calls for a few ingredients, most of which you probably have at home.  From Reader’s Digest, this is just one of many recipe ideas to help make your Valentine’s Day extra special.

Strawberry Pavlova showcases a pint of beautiful berries and only takes 1 hour to prepare.  Strawberries are high in antioxidants and the ones found in this bright red fruit have been proven to fight carcinogens and LDL, the bad kind of cholesterol which often leads to heart disease.  Further, strawberries are high in folic acid which is an important part of every pregnant woman’s diet because it plays a vital role in preventing birth defects.  Folic acid is important for everyone, however, because not having enough of it in your system can lead to dementia, osteoporosis, heart disease and many kinds of cancer.

Check out this  recipe and surprise your loved ones this Valentine’s Day with a beautiful and healthy dessert.

Promoting healthy eating, fitness and a healthy lifestyle is a main focus at Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina. Enjoy!  Before starting any weight loss program, always consult your doctor first and get his/her clearance for physical activity and find out if there are any issues that would affect you 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.

Webster’s Dictionary defines the word essential as “extremely important and necessary,” and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina couldn’t agree more.  Regardless of the coverage you choose, health care reform requires that qualified health plans include 10 essential health benefits that fall into the following categories that will help keep you and your family healthy and secure.

• Ambulatory Services
• Emergency Services
• Hospitilization
• Maternity and Newborn Care
• Mental health and substance abuse services (including behavioral health)
• Prescription drugs
• Rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices
• Laboratory services
• Preventive/wellness services and chronic disease management
• Pediatric services, including dental and vision

BCBSNC understands that your health care matters and that these essential services are extremely important and necessary to your overall wellness and peace of mind.  With a variety of health care policies to meet your essential needs, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is committed to offering quality health care that more than covers the basics.  To find a BCBSNC health plan you can trust with your essential care, click here.

For more information on health insurance coverage in North Carolina, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our professional agents. Our agency provides coverage for health insurance in North Carolina through Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC). It would be our pleasure to help you navigate through the Health Care Reform changes in accordance with the new regulations of Obamacare. Call us for details.

Beginning in July 2010 – Consumers with health problems who have been uninsured for 6 months may be eligible to obtain coverage through a new high risk pool program. And a temporary reinsurance program will help employers who provide coverage to their retirees in maintaining this coverage.

Beginning in plan years on or after September 23, 2010 – Pre-existing condition exclusions are prohibited for children under 19, dependents up to age 26 will be able to obtain coverage through parents’ health plans, routine preventive care will be covered without cost-sharing, limits on lifetime coverage will be eliminated along with other changes.

Beginning in 2014, the new law requires that all individuals have coverage and insurers must offer coverage to anyone regardless of health status and cannot vary premiums based on health status.

In 2014 – Individuals and small businesses will be able to purchase coverage through state-based exchanges. Consumers will be able to purchase health insurance regardless of health status and premiums cannot vary because of health status. Individuals will be required to purchase health insurance or pay a penalty. Subsidies will be available on a sliding scale to help individuals or families with incomes up to 400 percent of the federal poverty level to purchase insurance through new state-based exchanges.

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