HARTFORD, CT -- Universal Health Care Foundation of Connecticut spoke up at today’s rate hike hearing on behalf of state residents who buy health insurance in the individual and small group markets. The hearing, held by the Connecticut Insurance Department, was to review rate requests submitted by health insurers for 2020 health insurance policies.
“Here we are, looking at yet another year of proposed rate hikes. Costs are going up and people feel it through premium increases, as well as co-pays and deductibles. Too many are making tough choices about their health care,” said Rosana Ferraro, policy officer at Universal Health Care Foundation of Connecticut.
The Foundation shared the results of an independent poll released in October 2018 that found that 50% of Connecticut adults experienced a problem with health care affordability in the past year. People stated that they are delaying and avoiding care, skipping recommended medical treatments and tests, using up their savings, wracking up credit card debt and choosing between basic needs and medical care.
Ferraro also shared the stories of three people, Sarah, Hank and Jessica who struggle to balance the affordability of health insurance premiums and high out-of-pocket costs. “This is what access to health care really looks like for the average individual or small business employee,” said Ferraro, referring to the consumer stories. “When will they see some relief?”
Universal Health Care Foundation of Connecticut’s mission is to serve as a catalyst that engages residents and communities in shaping a democratic health system that provides universal access to quality, affordable health care and promotes health in Connecticut. WE believe that health care is a fundamental right and that our work is part of a broader movement for social and economic justice.
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Contact:
Rosana G. Ferraro
Policy & Program Officer
Universal Health Care Foundation of Connecticut
203-639-0550 ext. 314
rferraro@universalhealthct.org
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