#premiumincreases

Colorado Insurers Pull Back, Threaten Coverage for 96,000 in 2026

Welcome to Ope Vox! Today’s topic hits close to home for our Colorado listeners: what happens when your health insurance plan might disappear? Imagine opening a letter saying your coverage is changing—scary, right? That’s what’s facing nearly 96,000 Coloradans, many of you over 65, and we’re going to sort it out together.

A recent InsuranceNewsNet story reports that two big insurers, Anthem and Rocky Mountain Health Plans, are pulling back from 16 Colorado counties in 2026, mostly around Denver. That’s a third of the 300,000 folks who buy their own health insurance, not through a job. Why? Premiums are set to jump—34% for Anthem, 36% for Rocky—because federal subsidies are ending, and a new law, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, is making things pricier. Colorado’s Insurance Commissioner, Michael Conway, says this could push over 100,000 people to lose coverage. Anthem might change its mind if the state approves lower rates, but for now, it’s a big disruption, especially for seniors on fixed incomes.

Why does this matter? If you’re like Susan, a 67-year-old in Denver, your Anthem plan might cost $600 a month without subsidies, up from $200. That’s tough when you’re managing heart meds or doctor visits. The good news? Affected areas like Denver still have other insurers, like Kaiser or Cigna, but switching plans can mean new doctors or higher costs. Some folks, like conservatives, say insurers need to protect their bottom line, while progressives, like Governor Jared Polis, push for state fixes, like the Colorado Option plan with lower rates. A balanced view? We need both—affordable plans and fair rules for insurers.

Here’s what you can do: If you’re in Colorado, check for a notice from your insurer by October 2025. Starting November 1, visit connectforhealthco.com to compare plans. Look for Colorado Option plans—they often have free primary care visits. Worried about costs? Call Connect for Health Colorado at 855-752-6749 for free help from a broker. Can’t afford fresh plans? Consider bronze plans with lower premiums or check Medicaid eligibility. A great resource is the “Health Insurance Shopping Guide” at connectforhealthco.com—download it for tips on picking the right plan.