Canton – AultCare Changes Health Insurance Offerings

Starting next year, AultCare will no longer provide individual and family health insurance plans, as well as plans for small employers.

The health system, overseeing Aultman Hospital, Aultman Alliance Community Hospital, and Aultman Orrville Hospital, announced the cancellation of marketplace plans for individuals, families, and small employers with fewer than 50 employees.

This decision will affect around 6,000 subscribers. According to a company representative, AultCare supports a total of approximately 100,000 members.

Plans available through Healthcare.gov are typically backed by federal premium tax credits based on income. Many enrollees are individuals without employer-provided healthcare, and small business plans also receive federal support.

Mark Wright, president of AultCare Health Plans and CFO of Aultman Health Systems, indicated that uncertainty about future grants influenced this decision to discontinue the plans.

“It was very challenging for us,” said Wright. “There’s a significant level of uncertainty surrounding the premium subsidies available for future participants.”

The enhanced premium tax credits available to many enrollees are due to expire at the end of 2025 unless Congress takes action.

“This uncertainty, along with financial losses we’ve experienced with this product, makes it hard for us to maintain its value and affordability,” Wright added.

Individuals enrolled in the discontinued plan will remain covered until December 31 but will need to seek new coverage for 2026.

AultCare has mailed notifications to affected customers, and these letters should have reached them this month.

Insurance Market Uncertainty

Many U.S. insurers are bracing for changes to their market plans for 2026. Analysis shows that premiums for marketplace plans could rise significantly, marking the biggest increase since 2018.

Matt McGough, a policy analyst with the KFF Affordable Care Act Program, mentioned that tax credits and potential tariffs are contributing factors. He noted, “There’s uncertainty about whether Congress will respond, complicating the situation for insurers as they consider their premium rates.”

Insurance companies are adjusting premiums with an average increase of 4% due to the fading tax credits, and some are adding an additional 3% to accommodate tariffs.

Higher premiums could push healthier individuals out of the market, raising concern for insurers. McGough remarked on the significant enrollment growth over the past five years, but noted insurers may become more cautious as increases take effect.

Preparing for 2026 Health Insurance

The open enrollment period for health insurance in Ohio starts on November 1.

“During this time, individuals can explore various plans available in their area,” Wright stated. He encouraged people to find plans that best suit their specific needs.

Wright mentioned that access to Aultman providers will still be an option through new plans. He advised that agents or brokers could assist in navigating new offerings, or individuals could visit Healthcare.gov for more information.

Those insured through employer plans should directly consult their employers regarding coverage options.

AultCare’s Other Insurance Plans

Other AultCare insurance offerings, such as Medicare Advantage and Commercial Group Insurance Plans, remain unaffected by the changes.

“We continue to provide a broad range of products,” Wright concluded.

For questions regarding coverage, individuals can reach AultCare at 330-363-6360 or 800-344-8858.