Home / Health / WA Health Rates to Surge 22.4% for Many
WA Health Rates to Surge 22.4% for Many
27 May
Summary
- Washington residents may see average health insurance premium hikes of 22.4% in 2027.
- Over 280,000 people rely on the individual market for coverage not provided by employers.
- Providence Health Plan will stop offering individual health insurance coverage in 2027.
Health insurance rates are projected to rise significantly in Washington state for the 2027 plan year. Thirteen insurance providers have submitted requests for premium increases averaging 22.4% for individuals purchasing coverage through the state's individual market.
This potential increase impacts over 280,000 Washingtonians who do not receive health insurance through their employers. A substantial portion, nearly 250,000, purchased their plans via the Washington Health Benefit Exchange last year. This number saw a 13% decrease from the previous year, attributed to the non-renewal of Enhanced Advanced Premium Tax Credits by Congress.
Adding to the changes, Providence Health Plan announced it will discontinue offering individual health insurance coverage starting in 2027. This move affects 254 current enrollees. Meanwhile, enrollment in Cascade Care Savings plans, available to households at or below 250% of the federal poverty level, has increased.
Insurance Commissioner Patty Kuderer acknowledged the anticipated financial strain on families and individuals. Her office will rigorously review insurers' justifications for the requested rate changes over the coming months. The open enrollment period for these plans is scheduled for November.
