MENU

Santa Fe Chicken Saute – BCBSNC and Healthy Spring Recipes

Thursday, April 7th, 2016

Santa Fe Chicken SauteMy kids love Mexican food and so do I.  The problem is that a lot of Mexican food is really unhealthy and can leave you feeling weighed down.  This recipe for Santa Fe Chicken Saute from Campbell’s Kitchen, however, highlights the lighter, springier side of Mexican food and offers you a delicious and healthy alternative to your everyday enchiladas.

It’s also incredibly easy to make and can be thrown together on a busy school night and served up with a salad in about 30 minutes.  Although it does call for some canned food, like black beans and tomato soup, it also incorporates fresh or frozen kernel corn, fresh cilantro, and green onions.  This dish is perfect over a bed of rice or quinoa and if your family likes avocado, a fresh slice of avocado on top adds flavor, color and a healthy dose of good fat. (more…)

Make Food Work for You: BCBSNC and Healthy Spring Eating

Tuesday, March 29th, 2016

bigstockphoto_woman_and_child_choosing_fruit_39154651Spring is in the air and 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.  In many ways, food is the very best medicine if used correctly and BCBSNC and NC Health Plans believe in preventive care maintenance. This spring, try eating your way to a healthier, happier, more whole you!  Below are some foods that can give you the nutrients you need: (more…)

Take Care of Your Heart – BCBSNC Supports Preventive Care

Monday, March 7th, 2016

Family, Health And Community Icon Isolated On WhiteBlue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is a strong advocate of preventive care and according to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in America.  In fact, taking care of your heart may be one of the most important things you can do to improve your health and increase longevity, but how can you improve heart health?  Truthfully, it’s nothing we don’t already know, but a few small, deliberate changes this year could make all the difference.

Here are 5 easy things you can do to improve the condition of your heart: (more…)

Dental Blue is Something to Smile About

Wednesday, February 10th, 2016

bigstockphoto_mother_and_child_1213809

“Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.”  – Thich Nhat Hanh

There’s almost nothing sweeter than a beautiful smile, but almost nothing worse than teeth or gums that are causing you pain or discomfort.  Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC and Dental Blue can help.  Having a dental plan that provides for routine oral exams, teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, and X-rays is an important part of oral maintenance and preventive care.  With a large network of dental providers, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is a trusted name when it comes to both health and dental insurance.

Although without a Qualifying Life Event you may not be able to obtain health insurance outside of Open Enrollment, under the laws of the ACA you can still get dental coverage.  Because dental insurance is not subject to the guidelines of Special Enrollment and Qualifying Life Events, you can enroll in a Dental Blue plan at any time during the year. (more…)

Weathering Winter – Staying Active in Colder Months

Monday, January 18th, 2016

Winter playing, fun, snow and family sledding at winter time

Personally, I’m not crazy about winter and it’s mostly because I dislike being cold.  Even when there’s the slightest chill in the air, I struggle to stay active and highly prefer being snuggled up by the fire with a hot cup of tea and a good book.  Unfortunately, however, all that inactivity can leave me feeling lethargic.  Being active is an important part of living well and Blue Cross Blue Shield NC encourages preventive care all year long.  Below are a few ways to stay active this winter and keep yourself moving well into spring! (more…)

BCBSNC Supports Mental Health – The Case for Quiet

Thursday, December 31st, 2015

Silhouette of yoga woman meditating on the ocean beach. Fitness.

As one of the ten essential benefits included in every Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina health plan, mental health and substance abuse disorder services (including behavioral health treatment) is one of the most important.  Mental and emotional health is paramount to being a healthy human being and let’s face it, it’s harder to stay physically sound if you are not mentally and emotionally well.  Stress can take a big toll on our bodies and we all know it’s important for us to do whatever we can to alleviate stress, but it seems almost impossible at times.  With all the hustle and noise and pressure that surrounds us, how can we possibly find ways to eliminate stress and still keep up with all the demands of our daily lives?  Especially around the holidays, it seems we are caught up in a whirlwind of activity that simply will not let up.

But here is one thing you can easily do to help alleviate stress and according to a recent study, it can help save you from potential heart failure. (more…)

BCBSNC Supports Women’s Preventive Care

Monday, November 30th, 2015

Happy Moment

Did you know that more women die from strokes every year than men?  It’s true and it’s just one of the reasons Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is a huge advocate of women’s preventive health care.  In fact, every BCBSNC health plan offers preventive care covered at 100%, including a variety of services especially aimed at keeping women healthy.

When it comes to the risk of stroke, although some factors such as smoking, diabetes or obesity do not discriminate against age or gender, others do and there are some risks that are unique to women.  The following is a list of some of those special risks: (more…)

BCBSNC Preventive Care – The Benefits of Owning a Pet

Friday, September 25th, 2015

FullSizeRenderAt NChealthplans we love our pets!  This is a picture of Goose who regularly comes to work and makes our days at the office just a little bit brighter.  Pets make almost anywhere a happier place, but did you know that regular interaction with an animal can actually improve your health?  It’s true!  Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is a big proponent of preventive care and although your insurance policy won’t cover pet ownership as one of the benefits, pets can have a huge impact on your health.  In fact, surveys show that pet owners gain health benefits and visit the doctor 10% less than those without pets.  Pet owners have lower blood pressure, experience less sleep disorders and are in better overall physical condition than non-pet owners.  In addition, studies also indicate that acquiring a pet will actually increase the health of the pet owner, while pet owners whose pets die can actually suffer subsequent decreases in overall health and well-being.

Interestingly enough, any pet will do!  From horses to dogs to goldfish, any kind of pet can keep you healthier.  One of my son’s friends has  a hedgehog named Patches and honestly just looking at this little guy makes me feel better.

FullSizeRenderAlthough the exercise of walking a dog will obviously increase health benefits, it appears that what really matters when it comes to health and pet ownership is the companionship a pet provides.  Owning and caring for a pet provides both mental and physical stimulation, both of which contribute to healthier living. (more…)

BCBSNC Keeps Kids Healthy! – Back to School Tips for Staying Well

Friday, September 4th, 2015

Six Students Standing Outside School Together SmilingIt’s that time of year again- back to school and Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina encourages preventive care for your school-aged children!  Every year when school starts, exposure to all kinds of viruses and bacteria increases.  It’s simply unavoidable.  Our kids are back together in one place sharing space, air, restrooms and possibly even pencils and all it takes is one sick child in the group to create a ripple effect.  (more…)

Get a Check-Up – Why your Annual Physical is So Important

Thursday, June 25th, 2015

bigstockphoto_medical_exam_2778548Blue 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.

 

 

BCBSNC – the Core of Preventive Care

Tuesday, June 16th, 2015

Sit ups - fitness couple exercising sit up outside in grass in sThere’s been a lot of talk lately about “core strength, but what exactly does that mean?  Contrary to popular belief, there is more to core training than simply trying to get a six pack of abs, though a nice toned tummy might be one of the benefits.  Still, core strength isn’t just a buzz word in the exercise world.  Its’ one of the most important things you can do to keep your body strong and healthy, and a strong, healthy body is something Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina wants all its members to maintain.

Your “core” is actually made up of three groups of muscles:  the upper abs, the obliques (your side muscles), and a very deep layer of muscle.  It’s really those deep muscles that help the most because those are the ones that support the spine and hold your tummy muscles tight, making your stomach look flatter.  Core training not only helps you look thinner, but it helps promote balance and overall body strength.

In fact, the big difference between “core” training and traditional sit ups is that core training doesn’t just target the front side of your body, but your back side as well.  An exercise that trains your core will work more than one muscle group and produce much faster results.  Although looking great in a swimsuit is nice, it’s not the most important part of core training, especially as we age.  The real benefit is that the spine is strengthened to support the weight of our bodies and keep us from having chronic back pain.

One nice part of core training is that there are many different ways to help increase core strength.  More traditional exercises such as sit ups and crunches are crucial for developing surface muscles that will help as you continue to strengthen the deeper layer of muscle tissue.  Yoga and Pilates are also excellent ways to develop core strength.  Water sports such as paddle boarding and surfing are also great ways to build a strong, solid core.  Basically, any kind of exercise you do can strengthen your core if you introduce some element of instability.  What that means is that you make the exercise tougher by creating an unstable surface of some sort.  Instability then forces your body to work to create stability, which ultimately results in strong core muscles.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina is a strong advocate for preventive care and one of the best things you can do to prevent health problems tomorrow is to invest in your physical well-being today.  Make core training a part of your preventive care program.  A healthy diet, adequate rest and a good exercise regimen can do wonders for your both your body and mind.

As always, before starting any exercise regimen, 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.  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.

 

 

BCBSNC Preventive Care – Kids and Stress!

Monday, June 8th, 2015

Young Boy Concentrating On His SchoolworkBlue 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.

 

 

 
Individual & Family Plans
Medicare Plans
Dental & Vision Plans
Short-term Plans