The debate over increased premiums for State Health Plan members continued to build this week. SEANC Executive Director Ardis Watkins appeared on Spectrum News' Capital Tonight this week to make the case that State Treasurer Brad Briner should press the legislature for more transparency in the Plan's contracts with providers before pushing costs onto members.

The Plan's own consultants concluded that it pays some providers as much as 800% of Medicare reimbursement costs for some procedures.

Watkins also told host Tim Boyum that the state has built its rainy day fund on the backs of state employees, saving more than $1 billion in salary costs because of the state's vacancy crisis. The Plan also never received more than $250 million in COVID relief funds sent from the federal government.

In this week's episode of the SEANC View Podcast, we discuss the implications of proposed premium increases and the lack of transparency in provider contracts. The conversation sheds light on the challenges and assumptions faced by state employees and the actions needed to address these issues.

The podcast also explores the controversial TikTok ban in the United States, examining its potential impact on millions of users, influencers, and small businesses. Discussing legislative actions and market implications, the hosts provide insights into how this social media disruption could reshape digital communication.

The team explores the implications of potential premium hikes and how healthcare costs impact all residents of North Carolina. We question the transparency of healthcare provider contracts and discuss the financial burdens placed on families due to rising premiums and deductibles.