Changing Jobs? Get a Better Deal With Health Plans of NC

Life can be full of planned events and some that are a little more unexpected. If you're changing jobs or facing unemployment, and need to reconsider your health plan, our local North Carolina health insurance agents are here to help. 

Our agents work hard every day to find clients a better deal than COBRA. So before you use COBRA, call us to see how we can help. 

What Changing Jobs Means for Your Coverage

If you have employer-sponsored health coverage and either lose your job or switch jobs to an employer that doesn't offer insurance coverage, we can help you get affordable health coverage. 

Our agents will find the best plan to meet your healthcare needs and give you access to more options than what you may get with Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA).

What is COBRA coverage?

When you lose your employer-based insurance, you may be offered COBRA continuation coverage by your former employer. Choosing COBRA means you can continue to access group health benefits covered by your group health plan for a limited period. 

COBRA is usually offered to employees who face a voluntary or involuntary job loss, reduced hours or transition between jobs, death, divorce, and other life events. If you qualify, you may have to pay the entire premium for coverage up to 102% of the plan's cost. 

Before enrolling in COBRA

While COBRA may be a good fit for your health needs, it can be costly. Before you accept COBRA, give our agents a call to see what other health plans are available to save you money while still accessing a range of healthcare benefits. 

Already enrolled in COBRA?

If you've already enrolled and it's the Open Enrollment period, you can easily switch to a Marketplace plan to get the best deal for your health insurance, whether you are looking for cheap health insurance or full coverage.

If you're outside Open Enrollment, you may still be able to switch if your COBRA is running out or if your COBRA costs have changed (such as a loss of subsidy or your former employer ceases contributing). Both of these mean you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. You can also switch if you qualify for a Special Enrollment due to another qualifying reason. 

What is Marketplace Health Coverage?

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace is a platform for individuals, families and small businesses who don't have access to employer-sponsored health insurance plans. Our agents can search and find the right private health insurance plan for your health needs and budget. 

Coverage typically includes essential health benefits such as -

• Outpatient care

• Emergency care

• Hospitalization (including surgery and any overnight stays)

• Pregnancy, maternity, and newborn care (before and after birth)

• Mental health treatment

• Substance abuse treatment

• Counseling and psychotherapy

• Prescription drugs

• Rehabilitative services and devices 

• Laboratory services

• Preventive and wellness services 

• Chronic disease management

• Pediatric services (typically includes child oral and vision care)

Depending on your needs, we can also help you find plans that cover specific benefits, including dental coverage, vision coverage, medical management programs (including back pain, diabetes and weight management), birth control coverage or breastfeeding coverage. 

When applying for any plans, we'll also check if you qualify for Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which could save you money. 

What is the Special Enrollment Period?

You can only change your health insurance coverage during Open Enrollment unless you're eligible for a Special Enrollment Period. 

If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you can enroll in a plan at any time throughout the year. Qualifying events typically cover life events, such as having a baby, getting married or moving states. 

You also qualify if you lose or change your job if you enroll within 60 days of ceasing employment. You may also be eligible if you lose coverage through the employer of a family member, including if you lose health coverage through a parent or guardian because you're no longer a dependent. 

Health Coverage for Everyone

Our experienced and knowledgeable health insurance agents can help with a broad range of health insurance coverage needs, whether you work full-time, are self-employed, unemployed or work part-time. 

Contact our agents today to learn more about your options and find a plan that suits your health needs - at the best price.