Open enrollment for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act, commonly called Obamacare, begins Sunday, Nov. 1, and runs through Jan. 15, 2027, according to the report. Residents in Maverick County who rely on the plans are among those affected.
According to the nonprofit health policy organization KFF, average benchmark premiums nationwide are increasing about 13 percent for 2027. The report said the increases follow the expiration of enhanced federal premium tax credits at the end of 2025. Regular subsidies remain available, but KFF said many households could face substantially higher premiums, particularly those above federal income eligibility limits.
The report said higher insurance costs could add to pressure on families already facing higher prices for groceries, housing, utilities, gasoline, diesel and transportation. It also said some residents with conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure could postpone care or stop necessary medications without affordable coverage. According to KFF, Marketplace plan selections nationally have declined.