HHS reports on premiums, choice in 2018 health insurance exchange

Oct 30, 2017 - 10:38 AM

The Department of Health and Human Services today released an analysis of consumer choice and premiums in the 2018 federal health insurance exchange, which focuses on states that use the HealthCare.gov platform. According to HHS, the average monthly premium for the second-lowest cost silver plan (the benchmark plan) grew 37% for 2018 while the average monthly premium for the lowest-cost plan of any metal level grew 17%. Due to the growth in the cost of the benchmark plan, according to HHS, the average advanced premium tax credits will increase 45% in 2018 to $555. As a result, enrollees who qualify for APTC may pay a lower portion of their premiums than in prior plan years, especially if they select plans from metal levels other than silver, the agency said. Many states required plan issuers to load an additional premium increase onto silver plans to account for uncertainty over cost-sharing reduction payments. The number of plan issuers participating in the exchange fell from 167 in 2017 to 132 for 2018, with eight states expected to have only one issuer.

Related News Articles

Perspective
Uniting to Protect Access to Care
Public
The fate of the Trump administration’s legislative centerpiece — the One Big Beautiful Bill Act — continues to be the focal point in Washington, D.C.After the…
Headline
CMS rescinds EMTALA guidance
The Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services said June 3 they are rescinding 2022 CMS guidance with the subject…
Headline
GAO says CMS should target behavioral health services in prior authorization audits
The Government Accountability Office May 29 released a report recommending the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services target behavioral health services…
Perspective
As Reconciliation Bill Shifts to the Senate, We Must Speak Up to Protect Medicaid and Access to Care
Public
After approval in the House last week by a one vote margin, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act — a sweeping package that would enact many of President Trump’s…
Perspective
This Memorial Day, Reflection and Remembrance from a Grateful Nation
Public
In December 2024, Army 2nd Lt. Regina Benson celebrated her 105th birthday. At the time of her passing the following month, she was America’s oldest military…
Headline
AHA expresses support for legislation streamlining prior authorization requirements under MA plans
The AHA May 21 voiced support to Senate and House sponsors of the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act, legislation that would reduce the variation in…