March 29, 2019
Agency
2019 Health Insurance Market Conditions
2019 Health Insurance Market Conditions
The 2019 health insurance markets are stabilizing, with some rate reductions, after a number of difficult years. After regulatory implementation of some administrative actions, market conditions moving into plan year 2019 substantially improved. Issuer participation is also growing and expanding across the country, providing more choice and may provide lower rates. The small employer association plans and short term medical plan regulatory changes are not showing improved opportunities at this time.
Health insurance continues operating under much of the core provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), although there has been some disruption to some of the laws provisions. Popular provisions include guaranteed issue plans, no waiting periods for pre-existing conditions, free preventive care, unlimited benefits, tax credits, and more. Most consumers are reporting to us that they are happy with the rules, options, rates, tax credits, coverages, and more. Some individual customers over about age 50 with higher income are seeing very high rates, because they are not eligible for premium relief from the government, and there is no planned government premium relief for this consumer group at this time.
Health insurance, compliance, and working with government agencies and insurance companies can be complicated and time consuming. We can make it easier for you. We have specialized licensing, certifications, and experience that allow to deliver the programs that best fit your needs and budget. Since we are brokers, we can help you find the best value from what is available, and continue to work by your side to provide the solutions and guidance you need to maintain the coverage and rates that work best for you, during the year, and at each open enrollment and renewal. Our specialties include employer health plans, Medicare planning & enrollment, individual health insurance, dental, health insurance tax credit determinations for employers & individuals, consumer advocacy, education, and more.
Employers may purchase benefit programs throughout the year. Individuals who want health insurance must purchase plans during the annual open enrollment that starts each November for coverage to begin January 1st, of individual consumers must purchase a health plan within 60 days of a qualifying life event. Medicare beneficiaries usually have Medicare starting at age 65, or earlier if the beneficiary is disabled.