Maryland has made significant gains in expanding access to health coverage, but that progress is now at risk as insurers seek significant rate increases for 2026.
In a recent Baltimore Banner article, health insurers in Maryland are requesting substantial premium increases for plans offered through the State’s health exchange. On average, insurers want to raise rates by 17 percent for individuals and 5.5 percent for businesses. These hikes are largely tied to the potential expiration of federal subsidies that have helped make coverage more affordable. If approved, the increases could lead to an estimated 70,000 Marylanders dropping coverage, which would have ripple effects across the health care system and local safety nets.
From the article:
State Del. Joseline Peña-Melnyk, a Democrat and chair of the Health and Government Operations Committee, said the state will try to protect gains made by reducing the number of people without health insurance in Maryland. The rate has been cut in half to about 6% since the Affordable Care Act was passed in 2010.
Maryland lawmakers and health officials are exploring ways to blunt the impact, including expanding a State program designed to offset costs for insurers. The Maryland Insurance Administration will hold public hearings this summer before finalizing any new rates. With local health departments and emergency services already stretched thin, county leaders should be aware of the potential burden a spike in the uninsured population could place on community resources.
Read the full article.
The official blog site of the Maryland Association of Counties.
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