When it started the year, the plan was deep in a fiscal hole, now this year’s hole has been filled. But plan leaders anticipate another year of challenges.

As state Treasurer Brad Briner looks to address what could be a billion-dollar deficit, he says part of the puzzle will be higher premiums for state employees.

Regulations meant to prevent unfettered health care expansion are withholding needed hospital beds in a rural part of North Carolina. Here, as in communities around the country, some officials and health care providers are contesting such “certificate of need” laws.

Likely changes come on the heels of significant premium increases in 2026, changes Briner said were necessary to stave off "a financial crisis" for the health plan.

State’s proposal for NC’s share of $50 billion in new federal money would create regional hubs, bolster workforce and revive food-as-medicine programs.

Federal health officials say 37 babies in 17 states, including North Carolina, have been sickened in an infant botulism outbreak tied to contaminated formula.

Hospital chaplains provide spiritual and emotional support, and like other health care workers, they struggle with burnout. But chaplains from Chapel Hill to Charleston are finding their own support.

Gov. Josh Stein is at odds with legislative Republicans over what he says is a $319 million shortfall for Medicaid.

Providers warn that allowing Medicaid reimbursement rate cuts to linger will have continued impact on patient care in North Carolina.

Speaker of the House Destin Hall and Senate Leader Phil Berger told Stein the special session is unconstitutional and unnecessary.