From Florida Blue
In Summary:
With inflation squeezing household budgets and enhanced federal subsidies set to expire at year’s end, many Floridians are reconsidering whether health insurance fits into their monthly spending. But experts stress that Marketplace coverage remains a smart and stabilizing investment, offering $0 preventive care, negotiated savings on prescriptions and specialist visits, and essential protection against the staggering costs of medical emergencies. A single ER visit in Florida can average more than $3,100 without insurance, and hospital stays can climb to $30,000—expenses that can financially devastate families. While premium tax credits may decrease in 2026, many residents will still be eligible for subsidies that significantly reduce their monthly costs. With free guidance available from licensed insurance agents, Floridians can find affordable coverage that meets their needs and protects them from unexpected medical bills.
Health Insurance is Still a Smart Investment
With the cost of living on the rise, many people are making tough decisions and trade-offs, and cutting back on non-essential expenses. Choosing health insurance on the Individual Marketplace is an investment that may seem like a luxury, especially with enhanced premium tax credits (also called subsidies) set to expire at the end of the year, which could cause monthly costs to spike across the state.
Purchasing health insurance can feel overwhelming, but creating a budget that includes insurance can help alleviate financial stress. The right coverage provides peace of mind and financial stability, and, for millions of people, it’s a key part of a secure and healthy life.
More predictable planned expenses
Having health insurance is a way to take control of your overall health in all stages of your health journey. As life changes, so do medical needs.
For those in good health, prevention is a top priority. Marketplace plans cover important services like yearly wellness checkups, routine bloodwork, vaccinations, plus cancer screenings like mammograms and colonoscopies. These services, which could cost thousands of dollars without insurance, are covered at a $0 copay with Individual Marketplace health plans. This allows you to focus on staying healthy without the worry over surprise bills.
For those with chronic conditions or ongoing health needs, health insurance is a vital lifeline. By maximizing their plan’s negotiating power, members can save on doctor and specialist visits, imaging, and prescription drugs. Many people take four or more prescription medications per month, and insurance can help offset the costs, including discounts on 90-day supplies delivered to the home.
Regardless of your health status, having coverage enables families to budget and plan for the future.
Protection for the unexpected
When there’s a sudden diagnosis or medical emergency, insurance provides added financial protection from high healthcare costs. In Florida, the average ER visit without insurance can cost a staggering $ 3,100, and the average hospital stay can cost around $30,000. Having health insurance serves as a safety net, so you’re not alone when facing unexpected medical bills.
Getting financial help this year
When weighing the cost of insurance, keep in mind that you may have help to offset your monthly payments. Even if the government allows the enhanced premium tax credits to expire, and if there is less of this financial help in 2026, these tax credits won’t go away entirely. Depending on factors such as income and location, some individuals may still be eligible for a subsidy that covers 100% of their monthly premium.
Guidance is available at no extra cost
Wherever you are on your health journey, your health and well-being are worth protecting. A licensed insurance agent can simplify the process of finding a health plan, explain the options, and connect you to any available financial help. Florida Blue has served the state for over 80 years, offering expert guidance and support to individuals and families. Visit FloridaBlue.com/StayCovered to learn more about the government changes to this year’s Open Enrollment and how to connect with a local licensed Florida Blue agent or a neighborhood Florida Blue Center.
Key Points:
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Rising living costs and the potential expiration of enhanced tax credits are leading many people to reevaluate their health insurance options.
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Marketplace plans cover key preventive services—such as checkups, screenings, and vaccines—at a $0 copay, saving families thousands of dollars each year.
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Insurance provides essential financial security for chronic conditions, prescription drugs, and specialist care, all of which are supported by negotiated pricing.
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Emergency medical care without insurance can be financially devastating, with Florida ER visits averaging $3,100 and hospital stays around $30,000.
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Even if enhanced subsidies expire, many individuals will still qualify for premium tax credits, and free assistance from licensed agents is available statewide.
