Even as Governor Bruce Rauner denounces higher insurance premiums in Illinois under the Affordable Care Act, the federal government is trying to tamp down those concerns. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services today released an analysis that projects roughly two-thirds of Illinois consumers would still be able to buy a plan for less than 75 dollars a month... even if rates next year increase by 50%.
Assistant Secretary Katie Martin says that's because the ACA allows people to shop for plans, and compare prices. She also says most people buying insurance through "Obamacare" receive tax credits.
"We know there has been speculation about rates in the marketplace. And we want to make sure that everyone understands that headline rate increases do not reflect what consumers actually pay."
But individuals and families who do not get tax credits could be left paying higher premiums. Deductibles and which doctors are part of a provider’s network are also a factor.
Insurers, including the popular Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, are proposing double-digit premium increases for plans offered here. And Aetna says it is leaving the Illinois marketplace in 2017.
Rauner blames "major structural flaws" in the law. He says in a written statement that Congress should enact "smarter policies."
