Health premiums under the Affordable Care Act could rise more next year than in previous years, according to Kaiser Health News. Premiums for one popular type of “silver” plan could rise 10 percent in 2017. This year that same plan’s cost only rose five percent. Projections are based on preliminary insurance rates filed with state regulators. These rates are still subject to federal review. Over 80 percent of Obamacare enrollees will be insulated from the premium increases by government subsidies.
Comparison shopping might help consumers beat rate hikes, experts say. But be prepared: That might mean switching insurers. And switching insurers could mean changing doctors.
Potentially high premium increases could make November’s election a referendum on the success of the program. Thirteen million Americans got coverage through the federal marketplace this year.