Health insurance costs surge as open enrollment nears

Health Insurance Open Enrollment Period Announced

Starting November 1 and running until January 15, 2026, individuals can enroll in or change their health insurance plans. This annual opportunity is crucial, allowing people to adjust their coverage unless they experience a life event that warrants a change.

To benefit from plans starting at the beginning of the new year, shoppers need to select their coverage by December 15. However, a notable concern is the anticipated hike in insurance premiums.

Rick Notter, the vice president at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, described the upcoming year as “unprecedented” in terms of health insurance, with average premium rates across the country expected to rise by 20%. In Michigan, the situation appears even more challenging.

“The latest approvals indicate an average statewide increase of 24%, a substantial jump for both PPOs and HMOs,” Notter mentioned. He linked the rising costs to more insurance claims, the escalating prices of prescription drugs, and expiring tax credits.

While some subsidies can lessen the impact of higher premiums, Notter noted that these supports are nearing their end, and interest rates could increase significantly.

He suggested that individuals reach out to professionals for assistance instead of trying to navigate the insurance market independently. One option to find help is through Central Michigan 211.

Program Supervisor Evelyn Mercer shared that their team can guide individuals through the system and connect them with experts to address the issue of rising premiums. “We’re hearing from people who say, ‘I can’t afford groceries anymore because of my insurance costs.’ We might be able to explore other resources to help with not just insurance, but other bills too,” she said.

The Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) has issued a reminder for residents to begin the open enrollment process as soon as they can. They also pointed out that information regarding 2026 premiums may not be included in notifications from insurance companies. Therefore, Michigan residents should log in to HealthCare.gov before December 15, 2025, to ensure their information is up to date if they wish to automatically re-enroll.