Waiting for Medicare: Steeper costs push some adults to delay care
AI Generated by USA TODAY
The end of expanded ACA subsidies has caused many adults in their 50s and early 60s to face sharply higher premiums, prompting them to delay essential medical procedures until they qualify for Medicare, which experts warn could increase health risks and future public costs.
Key points:
John Galvin, 64, delayed a colonoscopy until turning 65 because his monthly Obamacare premium rose to $2,460 and his deductible was $2,700.
People with incomes above 400% of the federal poverty level (about $86,560 for a two‑person family) lost the pandemic‑era subsidies at the end of December 2025.
Adults ages 50‑64 make up roughly half of ACA enrollees, and many are seeing premium increases of up to threefold, sometimes amounting to a quarter of their income.
AARP reports that the ACA cut the uninsured rate for the 50‑64 age group in half and provided a safety net for those without employer coverage.
Jessica Schubel warned that delayed care will create pent‑up demand, forcing Medicare to spend significantly more when these individuals enroll at 65.
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