HHS' report showing most people purchasing health plans through Affordable Care Act exchanges next year can buy plans for $75 or less is directed at a specific group of individuals, not all Americans, The Washington Post reports.
The department released a report showing 73 percent of consumers could purchase a health plan on government exchanges next year for a $75 or less premium payment, even with 25 percent premium increases. HHS was referring to individuals eligible for tax credits and cost-sharing based on income. This group changes once income increases, as premiums and deductibles are higher for those who do not qualify for subsidies.
An Avalere study found more than 75 percent of individuals eligible to participate on ACA exchanges with incomes 100 to 150 percent of the federal poverty level are enrolled in ACA plans. However, 41 percent are between 151 and 200 percent of the federal poverty line, and 2 percent make over 400 percent of the federal poverty line.
Despite HHS' report, some consumers who qualify for subsidies could have to switch plans to keep their costs down as well, according to The Washington Post.
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