ACA Premiums Rise, Leaving millions Uninsured

Millions of Americans will see significant increases in their Affordable Care Act (ACA) insurance premiums in January.Some are planning to forgo coverage altogether, opting to pay for healthcare costs out-of-pocket, despite the risk of accumulating medical debt.

The enhanced government support for ACA plans is expiring, leaving many struggling to afford coverage. Even without insurance, people still require medical care. Blake Farmer of WPLN in Nashville spoke with one couple facing this challenging decision as their family grows.

Robert Sory is building an animal sanctuary in Thompson’s Station,Tennessee. He cares for a variety of animals, including Cricket, an albino raccoon, along with foxes, porcupines, emus, bobcats, and goats.

(SOUNDBITE OF GOAT BLEATING)

Both Robert and his wife,Emily,recently lost their jobs. Emily lost her administrative position and, with it, her health insurance. Robert now plans to cancel his ACA marketplace plan. He currently pays nothing for his premium, but a basic bronze plan will cost $70 per month next year.

“When you don’t have any income coming in, it doesn’t matter how cheap it is indeed. You know what I mean? It’s not affordable,” Robert Sory said.

“It’s a horrible, horrible market right now,” Emily Sory added.