State sets rates for federally subsidized health insurance

By Al Cross Published August 27, 2018 FEATURED, HEALTH BUSINESS

The state Department of Insurance has approved the 2019 rates for federally subsidized health-insurance plans under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, setting a slightly higher average rate for the state’s leading insurer than the company requested.

Rates for Anthem Health Plans of Kentucky will increase an average of 4.3 percent. The company had filed requests for rates averaging an increase of 3.5 percent. CareSource of Dayton, Ohio, which is partnering with Louisville-based Humana Inc., will get the average 19.4 percent increase it requested.

“Since the actual premium charged will vary by individual and the plan level selected, some individuals may see a decrease in rates,” the Insurance Department said in a news release. More detailed 2019 rate filing information is at http://insurance.ky.gov/ratefil.

Anthem will expand its coverage area into 34 counties it once served. Those counties will have a choice between Anthem and CareSource. However, in 16 of those counties, the only Anthem plans will use a narrow provider network, Anthem Pathway Transition HMO. In Hardin County, both Anthem networks will be available.

“Kentuckians in these specific 16 counties should take special notice before ultimately selecting their plan,” Insurance Commissioner Nancy Atkins said in the release.. “The provider network has been narrowed significantly, so individuals may find their preferred medical provider is not within the allowed network. We recognize that provider availability is a crucial factor in plan selection and want to make sure everyone is aware of this change.”

About 90,000 Kentuckians are covered under “Obamacare” policies this year. The department said it “will continue to perform outreach to answer questions for consumers” before open enrollment begins Nov. 1. It will run through Dec.15. Announcements and helpful tips will be posted on Facebook.com/KentuckyDOI. Consumers with questions can find contact information at insurance.ky.gov/contact.