Rhode Island health insurers push for rate hikes
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island's commercial health insurers want to increase rates by as much as 10 percent next year.
The state health insurance commissioner's office is currently reviewing the rate requests and taking public comment.
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island, the state's largest insurer, wants to increase rates by 10.6 percent for large employers. Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island is seeking an 8.7 percent increase for individuals. Other insurers like Tufts Health Plan and UnitedHealthcare have also submitted requests.
The commissioner's office says increasing costs for health care services, rising drug prices and uncertainty around the Affordable Care Act contributed to potential rate hikes.
Democratic U.