Health
Ask about it
Tell us more about what you need. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Programs in North Carolina
North Carolina programs for this kind of help. Each agency decides who qualifies.
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
NC Medicaid
In North Carolina, Medicaid is called Medical Assistance.
NC Medicaid provides health coverage to eligible North Carolina residents.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
NC Medicaid for Children
In North Carolina, CHIP is called NC Health Choice (now part of NC Medicaid).
Children who qualify get free or low-cost health coverage through NC Medicaid, which now includes the old NC Health Choice program.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services
The state and local partners connect residents with mental health, substance use, and developmental disability services.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal programs
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Medicare
Health insurance for people 65 or older and for some younger people with a disability or kidney failure.
Most people sign up through Social Security, online at SSA.gov or by phone. Medicare.gov compares plans.
Social Security Administration
Extra Help with Medicare drug costs
Help paying for Medicare prescription drug plans for people with limited income and resources.
Apply online at SSA.gov or call Social Security. People with Medicaid or SSI may get it without applying.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
HealthCare.gov
The federal marketplace for health insurance plans. Many people can get lower monthly costs based on their income.
Apply online at HealthCare.gov or by phone during open enrollment, or after a big change like losing other coverage.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
VA health care
Health care at VA clinics and hospitals for veterans who served in the active military and did not get a dishonorable discharge.
Apply online at VA.gov, by phone, by mail, or in person at a VA medical center.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Talk to a person
- NC 211
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988