"But premium increases and the expiration of enhanced tax subsidies have led to larger-than-expected costs. Concerned shoppers, wondering if there's anything they can do, are consulting insurance brokers or talking to representatives at ACA marketplace call centers. We're hearing from people with complex medical conditions who don't think they can survive if they don't have access to medical care, said Audrey Morse Gasteier, executive director of the Massachusetts Health Connector, that state's insurance marketplace."
"Late Wednesday, the House passed a package of measures favored by conservatives that does not address the subsidies and is largely viewed as dead on arrival in the Senate. Earlier Wednesday, however, four GOP moderates joined with Democrats to sign a discharge petition to force a vote likely in January on a three-year extension. The Senate and President Donald Trump would also have to approve the measure, but if extended the subsidies could be applied retroactively."
"Meanwhile, the deadline for choosing a health plan is quickly approaching. The official end of open enrollment is set for Jan. 15 for coverage starting Feb. 1. In most states, it's already too late to enroll for coverage starting Jan. 1."
Millions of Americans who buy Affordable Care Act insurance can still enroll for 2026, but premium increases and the expiration of enhanced tax subsidies have raised costs. Concerned consumers are consulting insurance brokers and marketplace representatives, and some with complex conditions fear losing access to necessary care. Some are considering alternatives outside the ACA, though those options require caution. Congress appears unlikely to extend the enhanced subsidies before year-end, but a discharge petition could force a January vote that, if approved and signed, might apply subsidies retroactively. Open enrollment largely ends Jan. 15 for Feb. 1 coverage.
Read at kffhealthnews.org
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