The rising cost of health care continues to be a significant barrier for many in New Hampshire, with ACA Marketplace insurers proposing a median premium increase of 7% for 2025, on top of the 6% hike filed for 2024. Insurers’ proposed changes range from 2% to 10%, but these rates may still shift during the review process for NH.
High costs have led to troubling consequences: one in four Americans report skipping or delaying necessary care over the past year due to financial constraints. This trend is even more pronounced among the uninsured, with 61% going without needed care because of cost.
Several factors drive these rising costs, including inefficient systems, soaring drug prices, and profit-driven healthcare models. While some of these issues are systemic, their impact hurts families.
Delaying care not only compromises individuals' health but can also result in hefty debt.
To tackle this issue, we need to start talking about how to address both the root causes of rising premiums and provide better financial guidelines to ensure that health care is accessible for all, not just those who can afford it. Expanding access to affordable care is not just a health priority—it's an economic one.
Jayme H. Simões
Concord, NH
603-620-1453
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