Open enrollment for health insurance is now underway, and Kansas City area consumers should take a close look at their options for the 2027 plan year. Independent insurance broker Jeff David, who runs Jeff David Insurance in Gladstone, warns that premiums are set to increase again, and that the rise could be significant.
Premiums likely to climb
According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, insurers have proposed a median 15% increase in ACA Marketplace premiums for 2027. This marks the second consecutive year of double‑digit premium hikes. “Premiums are definitely up next year,” David said, noting that the trend reflects broader health‑care inflation and the tension between what insurers seek to collect and what providers charge for services.
Don’t just renew automatically
David cautions consumers against the common practice of automatically renewing their current plan. “Sometimes the doctors will notify you, ‘Hey, we’re out of this plan next year,’ and sometimes they won’t,” he explained. He recommends checking whether your preferred doctors, hospitals and prescription medications remain in‑network before the enrollment deadline.
Key steps for shoppers include:
- Review the provider directory for each plan to confirm that your primary care physician and specialists are covered.
- Verify that your pharmacy and any ongoing prescriptions are listed as in‑network.
- Compare the total cost of coverage, not just the monthly premium, by looking at deductibles, co‑pays and out‑of‑pocket maximums.
Consider your coverage needs
Beyond price, David says consumers should evaluate the breadth of coverage. Some plans may offer lower premiums but higher out‑of‑pocket costs, while others provide more comprehensive benefits at a higher monthly rate. Families with young children, for example, might prioritize plans that cover pediatric services and preventive care.
For those who receive insurance through an employer, the same principles apply. Even if the employer‑sponsored plan is automatically renewed, it’s wise to confirm that the network still includes your chosen health‑care providers.
Resources for Kansas City residents
The Missouri Department of Insurance, Financial Services provides tools to compare Marketplace plans, and many local health‑care providers offer assistance during open enrollment. Community health centers in the Kansas City metro area also host informational sessions to help residents navigate the process.
Open enrollment runs through December 15, giving consumers a limited window to make informed decisions. As premiums climb, taking the time now to verify coverage can prevent unexpected costs and ensure continuity of care for the coming year.
Original reporting: KSHB 41 Kansas City (local) — read the source article.
