Major Health Insurers Reverse Course: What This Means for Colorado Residents

Two major health insurers in Colorado, Anthem and Rocky Mountain Health Plans, have reversed their plans to exit a number of counties next year. This is good news for people buying their own coverage, as these cancellations would have impacted many of them.

The insurers decided to stay after the Colorado legislature approved new funding during a special session. This funding aims to tackle upcoming price hikes in health insurance.

Michael Conway, Colorado’s insurance commissioner, expressed gratitude in a statement, saying the new bills played a crucial role in ensuring that both Anthem and Rocky Mountain decided against discontinuing their coverage. He appreciated the collaboration during a challenging time.

Initially, the two companies had announced they would pull out of 16 counties, potentially leaving around 96,000 people searching for new insurance for 2026. These notices were submitted as state regulators were evaluating the proposed prices for the upcoming year.

Anthem’s reversal was somewhat anticipated. The company had emphasized on their website that they aimed to keep offering individual health plans in every county in Colorado. They stated that if sustainable rates were approved, they wouldn’t need to discontinue any plans.

“Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is committed to Colorado,” said spokesperson Emily Snooks. The company plans to offer coverage in every county in 2026 and values its partnership with the Division of Insurance, highlighting the importance of providing access to quality healthcare for all Coloradans.

State regulators will announce the final 2026 insurance prices soon, and open enrollment for individual coverage starts on November 1. This means that Coloradans will soon see how these changes may affect their healthcare options.

In a recent survey, 78% of people expressed frustration over rising healthcare costs. Experts warn that without adequate adjustments in funding and regulations, the situation might only worsen. As health insurance remains a concern for many, keeping an eye on these developments is crucial.

For more information on health insurance options in Colorado, visit the Colorado Division of Insurance.

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