How Pa.’s Health Coverage Options Could Change for 2023

HAP continues to advocate for extension of ARPA subsides to support access to care

August 03, 2022

Some Pennsylvania counties could see more competition and choices for coverage on the state’s health insurance marketplace during 2023, state officials announced.

This week, the Pennsylvania Insurance Department released the proposed 2023 requested rate filings for insurance coverage through Pennie. Final approved rates will be made public in the fall following a review and public comment period.

“As we navigate through the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pennsylvania continues to have a strong and competitive insurance market,” said Acting Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Options:  For the second year, every county in Pennsylvania would have more than one insurer in the individual market and more than one on-exchange insurer. As proposed, no county would lose an on-exchange insurer.
• Costs:  Companies offering plans in the individual market have requested an average statewide increase of 7.1 percent. Insurers attributed the rate requests to rising costs, an increase in claims due to delayed pandemic care, and the possible end of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) enhanced subsidies. 
• Historic enrollment:  Nearly 375,000 Pennsylvanians enrolled in health coverage during 2022, an 11 percent increase from the prior year. Pennsylvania recorded the lowest uninsured rate in history at 5.4 percent this year.
• Small group changes:  As filed, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties would gain a new insurer in the small group market.
• Quotable:  “Increased choices and plan options will provide Pennsylvanians with the opportunity to shop for the best coverage options for themselves and their families,” Humphreys said.

ARPA subsidies helped reduce out-of-pocket premiums by an average of 9 percent in Pennsylvania, state officials said. HAP continues to advocate for the extension of these critical subsidies that have made health coverage more affordable for Pennsylvanians during the pandemic.

Last month, HAP sent a letter to Pennsylvania’s Congressional Delegation with a call to action to preserve the advanced premium tax credits that are set to expire this year.

To comment on the 2023 proposed rates, contact the insurance department via email.