Advocates urge Illinoisans to comment on health plan rates

CHICAGO (AP) — Consumer advocates encouraged Illinoisans to make their voices heard Tuesday, one day after proposed insurance rate increases as high as 45 percent were made public for health plans sold in the state under the federal health care law.

Becker suggested that consumers detail their experiences with their coverage and ask if the state insurance department is considering affordability and provider networks when looking at rates.

Harken Health Insurance Company has proposed a nearly 29 percent hike in individual premiums and Health Alliance Medical Plans Inc. a more than 28 percent increase.

Premium rates must cover the anticipated health care needs of our members, and consumer protections exist in the way of rebates if a certain percent of premiums do not go directly to covering medical services and quality programs.

Many who buy coverage through insurance exchanges created under the Affordable Care Act are eligible for subsidies or tax credits to offset costs.