Recent news and analysis on Health Insurance

Health insurance news covering payers, premiums, Medicare Advantage, ACA markets, and benefit design.

• Report: 6M improperly enrolled in ObamaCare, $25B in subsidies

  The Paragon Health Institute report alleges 6 million people were improperly enrolled in ObamaCare exchanges in 2026, with improper subsidies totaling nearly $25 billion. CMS Administrator Mehmet Oz stated that 35% of enrollees may not be legitimate because they have never filed a claim. The report claims improper enrollments are especially problematic in states that did not expand Medicaid and those using the federal healthcare.gov platform.

• Alternative health plans gain popularity as ACA credits expire

  Non-ACA-compliant health plans are attracting enrollees after Congress let enhanced marketplace tax credits expire. Critics warn these plans offer inadequate coverage, can deny claims with limited appeal rights, and may impose caps. A retired teacher switched to two alternative plans costing $341/month after her ACA premium nearly tripled to $914.

• "An ObamaCare Fraud Update"

  This commentary argues that the expiration of pandemic ObamaCare subsidies has not led to the predicted coverage losses, but instead reveals widespread fraudulent enrollment. Citing a Paragon Health Institute study, it contends that millions remain improperly enrolled, costing taxpayers billions in improper subsidy payments.

• Highmark Health sues HaloMD over sham letter in arbitration

  Highmark Health filed a lawsuit against HaloMD, alleging the company used a sham letter and misleading price data to win over $3.9 million in No Surprises Act arbitration disputes. The suit, filed June 1 in federal court, claims HaloMD submitted over 450 ineligible disputes. Highmark seeks to overturn the awards and recover its money.

• "The nightmare for CT residents sued by hospitals for payments. 'They wanted their money'"

  This commentary argues that Connecticut hospitals aggressively sue patients over medical bills, even when patients have insurance and attempt to resolve disputes. It contends that the healthcare system's breakdowns, including confusing billing and insurer rules, trap patients in debt and legal action, highlighting the need for reform.

• "To die with dignity: my young husband's final wish came with a $65,000 price tag"

  The author recounts her husband's final wish to die at home, which cost over $65,000, arguing that the US healthcare system imposes financial burdens on end-of-life care. She contrasts this with the UK's National Health Service, highlighting the disparity in access to dignified death.

• "Baffling. Frustrating. Frightening. What It's Like To Be Sued Over Medical Debt. - KFF Health News"

  This commentary argues that the US healthcare system's billing and insurance practices trap patients in debt, using interviews with Connecticut patients sued by hospitals. It contends that confusing bills, high deductibles, and lack of financial assistance create a broken system where patients are held responsible despite having insurance.

• Canadian life insurers add health perks to attract younger customers

  Canadian life insurers are adding ancillary services like medical screening, health rewards, and grief counselling to make life insurance more relevant to younger consumers. Manulife expanded its Vitality platform in November 2025 to include Cronometer, NiaHealth, and GRAIL's Galleri multi-cancer early detection test. Policyholders can save up to 15% on premiums based on engagement.