Charlotte, N.C. – Many North Carolinians using the Affordable Care Act (ACA) might be in for a shock. Major health insurance companies are planning significant premium hikes starting in 2026.
Prominent insurers like Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina and Cigna Health Care are proposing serious increases. The North Carolina Department of Insurance reports that AmeriHealth Caritas plans to increase premiums by 36%, while Blue Cross Blue Shield and Cigna are considering hikes of 29% and 27%, respectively.
Fredrick Fisher, president of Fisher Consulting Group, points out that the expiration of federal subsidies at the year’s end is a major factor behind these changes. He explains that rising healthcare costs are impacting rates. Many medical supplies and drugs are imported, and tariffs paid by consumers add to these increasing expenses.
Fisher advises consumers to explore their options. “Shop around as much as possible. If you can afford it, consider plans with higher deductibles.”
These premium increases will officially take effect on January 1, 2026.
For more insights on this topic, you can check data from the North Carolina Department of Insurance. As these changes unfold, it’s important for consumers to stay informed and proactive.
