Pennsylvania residents facing higher health‑insurance costs this year have a critical window to act. Open enrollment for Affordable Care Act (ACA) coverage began on Nov. 1 and runs through Dec. 15, giving consumers a chance to adjust or select a new plan before coverage starts on Jan. 1, 2027.

Premiums are rising – know the numbers

The Pennsylvania Department of Insurance announced that average premiums for individuals buying coverage on their own have risen by 15.97%, while small‑business plans saw an average increase of 10.28%. These hikes reflect broader market trends since the ACA’s inception in 2014.

Expert advice to keep costs down

Lev Osterweil, owner of Health Insurance Experts, cautions against the common mistake of assuming the most expensive plan is the best. “Nine out of ten times, that’s not the case,” he told Action News 4. He recommends reviewing the entire plan package each year, not just the premium.

Key steps include:

• List all current prescriptions and verify they are covered.
• Confirm that preferred doctors and hospitals remain in the plan’s network.
• Calculate potential out‑of‑pocket costs for any planned surgeries or procedures, factoring in deductibles and co‑insurance.

Use Pennie wisely

For those without employer coverage, Pennie – the state’s official marketplace – remains the primary portal. While enhanced federal premium tax credits expired at the end of 2025, many Pennsylvanians still qualify for standard credits that can lower monthly costs.

Devon Trolley, executive director of Pennie, notes that about 400,000 Pennsylvanians are currently enrolled, and more than 10% have lost credits but could regain them by updating income information. Accurate income reporting is essential; outdated figures can trigger federal penalties and require repayment of excess credits at tax time.

Medicare considerations

Aaron Zolbrod, president of the Health Insurance Store, reminds seniors that 2027 is the first year many Medicare Advantage and supplemental plans have increased premiums, co‑pays, and drug deductibles (some rising from $0 to $700). He urges beneficiaries to review their Medicare options during the open enrollment period, which runs Oct. 15 through Dec. 7.

“The worst mistake seniors make is staying with a plan out of habit,” Zolbrod said. “Families should sit down, compare the changes, and make sure they’re not overpaying.”

Avoid scams

Experts also warn consumers to be wary of social‑media ads promising private health plans. Such offers often lead to scams and can jeopardize personal information.

Take action now

With the enrollment deadline fast approaching, Pennsylvania families should log into Pennie, verify income, compare plan details, and confirm that their preferred providers are in‑network. By taking these steps, they can mitigate the impact of rising premiums and secure the most affordable coverage for 2027.

Original reporting: WTAE (Hearst) – local — read the source article.