Friday, September 23, 2011

State of Working Colorado: Health insurance coverage over time – Costs and cost burdens rise

Increased cost is a prominent trend in Colorado health insurance. In 2000, the average annual premium in Colorado was $2,450 for single coverage and $6,797 for family coverage. In 2009, those costs were $4,750 and $13,360 respectively. That represents a 94 percent increase in single coverage premiums, and a 97 percent increase in family coverage premiums.





At the same time costs are rising, the burden of payment is falling increasingly on Coloradans. In 2000, Colorado employees were asked to pay 17 percent of premiums by their employers for individual coverage, and 23 percent of premiums for family coverage. In 2009 those shares increased to 22 percent for individuals and 25 percent for families. Growth in cost burden in Colorado outpaces growth for the U.S. as a whole.

For more insights, including detailed policy recommendations for enhancing economic security for all Coloradans, check out the State of Working Colorado 2010.

No comments: