CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – Hundreds of thousands of Iowans face potential increases in health insurance costs as federal tax credits for the Affordable Care Act are set to expire at the end of this year. In response, Mercy Medical Center hosted a help event Saturday to assist residents in navigating the changing landscape of health insurance options.
Alan Waite, an attendee, learned his monthly premium is expected to jump from $13 to $89 in 2026. “I wouldn’t have known where to go or else. And I had somebody to really help me through all the steps that you need to go through,” Waite said. “And it gives you confidence. And that’s a good feeling.”
This marked the first time Mercy Medical Center has offered such an event,driven by a recognized need to guide individuals through their coverage choices. “This allows us to help people pick out their plan, understand what goes into their plan, so that they have a good plan for themselves instead of just picking something,” explained amy hosek, eligibility team manager at Mercy Medical Center.
While the expiration of federal tax credits is expected to drive up costs, some individuals may still qualify for reduced coverage plans based on their income.Hosek noted that a system calculation will determine eligibility for monthly benefits.
Waite expressed concern about the financial impact on others, stating, ”Some people are going to bear some pretty heavy burdens with it and their financial situations. And it’s disappointing that’s going on.”
Mercy medical center will host another help event on Saturday, December 13. Details can be found at https://www.mercycare.org/events/event-search-results-detail/?eventId=961d244a-48c6-f011-a87d-000d3a611ea2. Open enrollment through the marketplace closes January 15th.
