A new measure from the federal government that seeks to bolster the availability of health insurance for those with existing medical insurance will go into effect today. The measure will reduce insurance premiums by as much as 40% for what lawmakers are referring to as “special, high-risk” plans. This will prove to be a particular benefit to those with pre-existing conditions who were originally unable to afford the insurance coverage they desperately need.
The measure is part of the overarching health care reform, the Affordable Care Act. Originally, this particular provision was to be instituted in 2014, along with the majority of provisions within the law. The federal government opted to for an earlier time due to the number of uninsured and underinsured people with pre-existing conditions.
Beginning Friday, 17 states, along with the District of Columbia, will be subject to the measure. Insurers in the majority of these states will cut premiums by 15% to 25%. Six states will cut rates by 40%. Mississippi will be home to the most modest rate reductions, with premiums being reduced by 2%.
People with costly medical conditions will be able to find affordable coverage thanks to the measure. Some insurers have speculated that they will be forced to increase premiums on other policies to re-establish a balance in the market. There is also some concern amongst the measure’s opponents that it will push medical costs higher.
