Health insurance rates for 2019 announced
The
Blue Plus and Medica -- the companies offering individual market plans in southern and western
Cost changes in the small group market, providing coverage for organizations with two to 50 full-time employees, aren't quite as rosy. Rate changes across all companies offering plans range from a 2 percent decrease to a nearly 12 percent increase.
While decreased rates for Minnesotans buying individual insurance this year are a positive development, it doesn't make up for the exorbitant increases of past years. As recently as 2017, rate increases ranged from 50 to 67 percent. Many had those premiums greatly reduced through special funding from the Legislature.
But taking into account the decreases or modest increases last year and decreases across the board this year, the signs of a stabilizing market are there, said Commissioner
"This positive trend is important for Minnesotans who buy their own health insurance and who benefit from the comprehensive coverage these plans offer, including coverage for preexisting medical conditions," she said.
A higher percentage of healthy, and therefore less costly, enrollees than in the past helps keep the costs lower.
"That's something to keep in mind," she said. "While it may look wonderful this year for folks and their pocketbooks, next year may be another year without the reinsurance program."
The health care co-op was started for farmers in response to concerns about rising health care prices. This will be its second enrollment period for the co-op, which has 442 members in a region including
Jake's Stadium Pizza owners Wally and
It remains a burden keeping up with the costs, he said, even if the rates are decreasing from last year to now.
"It's still costing us so much more than it used to," he said.
The two don't qualify for tax credits through MNsure,
"Many Minnesotans and their families may be leaving money on the table and we encourage Minnesotans to visit MNsure.org," said MNsure CEO
Specific details on plans available this year should be available soon through MNsure or the insurers. MNsure's open enrollment period for health insurance begins
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