Outer Banks small businesses get relief from rising healthcare costs

As healthcare costs continue to climb nationwide, Outer Banks small business owners finally have a new option to provide affordable coverage to their employees.

The Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce is hosting free information sessions from November 18-20 across the region to explain how local businesses with as few as two employees can now access the same purchasing power as large corporations through a new partnership with Carolina HealthWorks and Blue Cross NC.

“Healthcare costs have squeezed small business owners for years,” said Karen Brown, President & CEO of the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce. “We’re hearing from members who want to offer benefits to attract and keep good employees, but the costs have been prohibitive. This changes that.”

The Challenge for Outer Banks Businesses

Small businesses—the backbone of the Outer Banks economy—have historically paid significantly more for health insurance than larger employers, with fewer plan options and less control over costs. For many local restaurants, retail shops, and service businesses operating on tight margins, offering health benefits has been simply out of reach.

A Solution Built for Local Small Businesses

Carolina HealthWorks allows small employers to band together for better rates—some businesses could see savings of up to 40% compared to ACA marketplace plans. The program offers approximately 38 plan options, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, with streamlined administration that saves business owners time.

“This isn’t just about saving money—it’s about being able to compete for talent and take care of the people who make our businesses run,” Brown added. “In a tight labor market, benefits matter.”

Free Information Sessions—All Welcome

Chamber members and non-members are invited to attend free sessions throughout the Outer Banks to learn how the program works, eligibility requirements, and enrollment details. Business owners can ask questions and get one-on-one guidance.

Schedule:

Tuesday, Nov. 18, 10:30-11:30 AM | BJ’s Carolina Café (Currituck Room), 7069 Caratoke Hwy, Jarvisburg
Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2:30-3:30 PM | TowneBank Conference Room, 1203 Duck Road, Duck
Wednesday, Nov. 19, 11 AM-12 PM | Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce, 101 Town Hall Drive, 2nd Floor, Kill Devil Hills
Wednesday, Nov. 19, 1:30-2:30 PM | Dare Arts, 300 Queen Elizabeth Avenue, Manteo
Thursday, Nov. 20, 10-11 AM | Dare County Annex Building, 47013 Buxton Back Road, Buxton
Thursday, Nov. 20, 12-1 PM | Hatteras Realty Conference Room, 41156 NC Hwy 12, Avon

Registration is required. Register at www.outerbankschamber.com/chamberinformation/carolina-healthworks or call Kelly Allman at 252.441.8144.

Eligibility

Carolina HealthWorks is available to North Carolina businesses with 2-50 employees. Businesses must be Outer Banks Chamber members to participate. Non-members are encouraged to attend sessions to learn about both the healthcare program and Chamber membership benefits.For more information about the program, visit www.bluecrossnc.com/shop-plans/employers/local-group/carolina-healthworks.

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