What You Need to Know

With health care costs expected to increase we’re here to help you navigate what’s ahead. At Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming, we offer quality care close to home and a nationwide network of providers, backed by the security of the Cross and Shield.

Why Health Care Costs Are Changing

There are many factors outside your control that affect what you pay for health care — and many of these are beyond BCBSWY’s control too. Here’s a look at what’s driving changes for individual Health Insurance Marketplace Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans in 2026, and how we can help:

important factors impacting health insurance costs:

1. Fewer healthy people in the marketplace

When healthier individuals leave the ACA Marketplace, those who remain often require more care — driving up costs for everyone.

2. Loss of extra help (enhanced premium tax credits expiring)

Since 2021, many people have benefited from enhanced premium tax credits to reduce the cost of health insurance plans. These extra savings are set to expire in 2026.

3. New rules that may affect eligibility

Federal regulations taking effect in 2026 may change who qualifies for ACA plans. If fewer healthy people remain in the market, costs could rise for others.

4. Rising medical and prescription costs

Health care costs — including hospital services, outpatient care, and medications — continue to climb. Experts project 2025 will see the highest medical cost growth in over a decade. Understanding these factors can help you prepare and make confident decisions about your health coverage.