Covered California Poised To Unveil 2017 Insurance Premiums
The announcement is expected today. Higher increases than in previous years are anticipated.
KQED:
Covered California Premiums Going up 13.2% Next Year. Here’s Why.
Peter Lee, the agency’s executive director, cited several factors as drivers in this year’s spike. Most notable is an expiring federal “reinsurance” program, created as part of the Affordable Care Act, to spread the risk of so many newly insured people entering the risk pool. Actuarial experts estimate that alone adds 4 to 7 percent to premiums, but it’s viewed as a one-time effect.Rising health care costs, including specialty prescription drugs, are also a factor. (Dembosky and Aliferis, 7/19)
Fresno Bee:
Buying Health Insurance Through California Exchange Could Cost You More Next Year
Rates in Fresno, Kings and Madera counties are increasing by 10.8 percent on average. And rates in Tulare, Merced and Mariposa counties are going up 8.4 percent on average. Rates through some health plans, though, will be rising as much as 23 percent. (Anderson, 7/18)
The Associated Press:
Covered California To Release 2017 Insurance Rates
Covered California is preparing to release 2017 premium prices for people who buy health coverage through the state's health insurance exchange. Tuesday's announcement comes as many other states report big increases in insurance premiums for the fourth year of President Barack Obama's health overhaul. (Cooper, 7/19)