Living with Diabetes
North Carolina
The following information details health insurance and assistance programs available to uninsured people in North Carolina.
North Carolina Insurance Department - (800) 546-5664
In North Carolina, Blue Cross Blue Shield has been identified as the insurer that must provide coverage to all residents who apply, regardless of any health conditions that they may have. This is called guaranteed issue. Residents can purchase an individual health insurance policy from Blue Cross Blue Shield, but unfortunately, you may be required to pay a higher premium because of your diabetes (or another health condition). You can contact the North Carolina Insurance Department or Blue Cross Blue Shield directly at (877) 258-3334 for more information.
If you are self-employed, you may be eligible to purchase either a small group policy or a business group of one policy. You must be offered the basic or standard health plan, but can be denied other health policies. Insurers may ask to verify your small group or group of one status by asking for your tax records.
If you are having a problem with your state-regulated health plan and you are unable to resolve it with the plan directly, file a complaint with the insurance department. They may be able to provide you with assistance in reaching a conclusion.
North Carolina Medicaid - (800) 662-7030
Medicaid is available to anyone who meets income and eligibility criteria. Even if your income meets the criteria, you must fall into one of the eligibility categories in order to qualify. Contact your state Medicaid program for more information.
NC Health Choice for Children - State Children’s Health Insurance Program - (800) 662-7030
NC Health Choice for Children is the health insurance program designed to provide health insurance to children and teens under age 19 whose families may have too great an income to qualify for Medicaid, but who may not be able to afford health insurance. Visit the Web site to find out if you or your child meets the income guidelines.
Inclusive Health
Inclusive Health, also known as the North Caolina Health Insurance Risk Pool (NCHIRP), provides affordable, individual health insruance coverage for North Carolinans who do not have access to an employer health plan and face higher premiums due to a pre-existing medical condition.
If you or your loved one is unable to see a physician due to the cost of care, there may be a local community health clinic in your area. These clinics generally are free to patients or require a very small fee. Find a clinic in your area.
