Premiums for employer-sponsored insurance are rising faster than inflation, while deductibles are increasing even more rapidly. Because employer-sponsored insurance remains the primary source of health coverage in the U.S., these trends raise serious concerns about affordability and the growing financial strain on both workers and employers.
Researchers from the State Health Access Data Assistance Center (SHADAC), housed in the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, provide expert comment on these trends and their impact on Americans.
Elizabeth Lukanen
“While access to employer-sponsored insurance has been largely stable in recent years, that stability masks a growing affordability problem. Over the past decade, premiums have risen faster than inflation, and deductibles have climbed even more steeply, crossing the $4,000 annual threshold for the first time and putting growing financial strain on working families.”
“Unsurprisingly, more workers are turning to high deductible health plans, which now cover a majority of employees nationwide. While these plans can reduce monthly premiums, they also shift risk to employees, who, when faced with an unexpected medical event, may come up against thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs before coverage even begins, or may delay or forgo care, which can lead to negative health outcomes and potentially even greater costs in the future.”
Elizabeth Lukanen is the director of SHADAC. With 20 years of experience in the health policy arena, she specializes in managing complex projects and translating quantitative findings into actionable, policy-relevant information.
About “Expert Alert"
University of Minnesota experts can provide commentary, insights and opinions on various news topics. Find selected experts on the University’s Experts Guide or send requests to [email protected].
About the School of Public Health
The University of Minnesota School of Public Health improves the health and wellbeing of populations and communities around the world by bringing innovative research, learning, and concrete actions to today’s biggest health challenges. We prepare some of the most influential leaders in the field, and partner with health departments, communities, and policymakers to advance health equity for all. Learn more at sph.umn.edu.
About SHADAC
SHADAC is a multidisciplinary health policy research center with a focus on state policy. For over 20 years, SHADAC has produced rigorous, policy-driven analyses, translating complex research findings into actionable information that is accessible to a broad audience. SHADAC faculty and staff are nationally recognized experts on collecting and applying health policy data to inform or evaluate policy decisions, with expertise in both federal and state survey data sources. SHADAC provides unbiased technical assistance and in-depth analysis to states and other organizations and collaborates with a wide range of partners including foundations, state and federal agencies, academic institutions, other research organizations, and nonprofits.
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