Obamacare Premiums Surge 26% as Enrollment Period Approaches

UPDATE: New reports confirm that average health insurance premiums under Obamacare are set to surge by 26% for the upcoming year. The alarming news comes as the federal government releases its first preview of costs, revealing a significant financial burden for approximately 24 million Americans enrolled in the program.

The open enrollment period begins on November 1, 2025, and runs through January 15, 2026. However, the federal website Healthcare.gov has already opened its “window shopping period,” allowing current policyholders to gauge what their insurance might cost. For instance, a 61-year-old woman from Oregon discovered that her monthly premium would skyrocket from $439 in 2025 to a staggering $1,059 for the next year, accompanied by a deductible of $7,100.

In an effort to downplay this significant price hike, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, led by Dr. Mehmet Oz, released a statement suggesting that many individuals may still find affordable plans at $50 per month. However, these options typically feature high deductibles, raising concerns about actual affordability and accessibility.

During a press conference on Wednesday, Dr. Oz raised eyebrows by questioning the legitimacy of many Obamacare enrollees. He stated, “Half of people on Obamacare haven’t filed a claim all year,” implying that a substantial number of these individuals may not genuinely need insurance. His remarks have intensified scrutiny on the program, especially as he suggested that those not using their insurance should consider whether they truly have coverage.

The impending price increases are further complicated by the looming expiration of federal tax credits, which are critical to keeping costs manageable for many consumers. With Congress at an impasse—Republicans refusing to negotiate with Democrats over the continuation of these credits—the outlook remains grim. The standoff has been a primary contributing factor to the ongoing government shutdown since October 1, 2025.

As the situation develops, the urgency for potential policyholders to understand their options has never been greater. Consumers should be prepared for potentially drastic changes in their health insurance costs, making it crucial to stay informed about the upcoming enrollment period and available plans.

The impact of these rising premiums cannot be overstated, as many Americans face tough decisions regarding their healthcare needs. With costs climbing steeply, individuals and families will need to weigh their financial situations carefully to ensure they can maintain necessary coverage.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds, and be ready to take action as the enrollment period approaches. Sharing this information may help others prepare for the changes ahead.