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Insurance has gone through a number of changes over the past few years. Understanding these changes can be overwhelming. If you do not have insurance and are not eligible for Medicare or Medicaid, contact the N.C. Navigator Consortium at  (855) 733-7311 to get help enrolling in the Affordable Care Act Marketplace health insurance. Open enrollment times vary, but you may be eligible to enroll during other times of the year if you have experienced a “qualifying life event,” such as losing coverage, getting married, turning 26, or moving.

Medicare

Medicare is a health insurance program for:

• People 65 years old or older

• People under 65 years old with certain disabilities

• People on kidney dialysis, regardless of age

There are several parts to Medicare. Call 1-800-MEDICARE or visit the Medicare website for more information.

The Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)

If you’re a senior, The Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) counsels Medicare beneficiaries about Medicare, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, and long-term care insurance. Call (855) 408-1212 for more information.

Medicaid

Medicaid is a health insurance program for low-income people and their families. Each state has different rules about who is eligible for services and what services are covered. In general, you must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen in certain recognized categories.
  • Meet certain resource and income limits, which vary by eligibility group.

To apply contact your county Dept. of Social Services. Or contact the Medicaid Counselors at UNC Hospitals by phone at (984) 974-0950

Social Security Disability

To apply for Call SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or visit the Social Security website. The website has detailed information about how to apply and the appeals process.

Additional Resources

Cancer Insurance Checklist
Cancer Support Community
Provides a worksheet for you to record and keep information on each health insurance plan you have or are considering regarding different plans, coverage, costs related to your cancer care.

Making Sense of Insurance Matters
Patient Resource Publishing
Provides information on, coverage basics, out of pocket expenses, filing claims, and appealing denials.

Understanding Health Insurance
American Cancer Society
Provides information and links regarding Health Insurance Options, Managing Your Health Insurance, and Health Insurance Laws. In addition, this site also links to health insurance websites like Healthcare.gov, the Foundation for Health Coverage Education, a Health Insurance Eligibility Quiz, and the Health Insurance Assistance Service.