Health Care Costs: A Hard Hit for Three Families
Wisconsin: A Stark Reality for Retirees
In Wisconsin, a couple who once enjoyed comprehensive health coverage is now facing a stark reality. Chad and Kelley Bruns, both retirees, are downsizing their insurance plan.
- Previous Plan: Gold-level plan costing just $2 a month
- New Cost: $1,600 a month
- New Plan: Bronze plan with a $15,000 deductible
Kelley worries about the financial risk if they face a medical emergency. The new out-of-pocket maximum is nearly half their joint income, leaving them vulnerable.
Michigan: The Roof Family's Dilemma
In Michigan, the Roof family is considering going without insurance altogether.
- Dave and Kristin Roof, both self-employed, have relied on ACA insurance since 2014.
- Previous Premium: $500 a month
- New Premium: $700 a month
The increased costs are just too much for them to handle. They are already living frugally, and skipping insurance is their only option. The stress of this decision weighs heavily on them.
Nevada: A Single Mom's Struggle
In Nevada, a single mom is struggling to make ends meet. Katelin Provost, a social worker, is already stretching her budget to cover basic needs.
- Previous Premium: $85 a month
- New Premium: Nearly $750 a month
She plans to pay this higher cost for January and reassess afterward, hoping Congress will extend the subsidies. If not, she will have to drop her own coverage to keep her daughter insured. The financial strain is already affecting her holiday plans.
A Nationwide Challenge
These families are not alone. Millions of Americans are facing similar challenges as the enhanced tax credits expire. The Senate's rejection of proposals to extend these credits means higher costs for many. The situation highlights the ongoing struggle for affordable health care in the United States.
