SHERMAN, Texas – Open enrollment for health coverage has begun, and local agents are warning residents that insurance costs are on the rise. Nicole Morgan, owner of Morgan Medicare Solutions, says the average benchmark plan on the Affordable Care Act Marketplace is projected to increase 13% next year, following a 26% jump this year before any financial assistance is applied.
Premiums and Medicare supplements climbing
“Healthcare costs in general are going up, and that’s why we’re seeing a correlation in the rise in premiums as well,” Morgan explained. She noted that the upward trend is affecting both private market shoppers and those on Medicare. “Everyone in Medicare is affected, and the people that generally turn to the marketplace, they’re all affected,” she added.
Why a careful review matters
Morgan advises anyone purchasing a plan to work with a trusted expert. “If you’re not doing it with that expert, you can make a mistake and get into a plan that is not right for you, or a plan that costs you more, or a plan that your doctors or your hospitals don’t take,” she warned. An inaccurate income estimate, she said, could also trigger tax penalties for Marketplace enrollees.
Tips for Medicare beneficiaries
For those on Medicare, Morgan recommends reviewing prescription drug coverage and using a Medicare.gov account to compare options for the upcoming year. “If you fail to review, period, that can cost you big,” she emphasized.
Local resources
Residents can contact Morgan Medicare Solutions in Sherman for personalized assistance. The agency offers free consultations to help shoppers navigate plan options, verify that preferred doctors and hospitals are in‑network, and ensure that subsidies are correctly applied.
What to watch for
Beyond premium increases, consumers should stay alert for changes in plan formularies, network adjustments, and any new state‑level regulations that could affect coverage. Keeping an eye on these details early in the enrollment window can prevent unexpected out‑of‑pocket expenses later.
Open enrollment runs through December 15, giving shoppers a limited window to compare plans, confirm eligibility for subsidies, and lock in coverage for the 2027 benefit year. Acting promptly and seeking expert guidance can help Sherman families maintain affordable, reliable health care.
Original reporting: KXII News 12 (Gray) — read the source article.
