Why More People Are Choosing Medical Cost Sharing

Open Enrollment begins November 1st, and this year’s updates to the ACA Marketplace are bringing some major shifts.

If you’ve been watching premiums rise and coverage shrink, you’re not imagining things.

Here’s what’s coming – and how you can take back control of your healthcare spending with Medical Cost Sharing through Knew Health.

📈 Prices Are Climbing – Again

Major insurers estimate premium increases of 18-20% across Marketplace plans.

That means higher monthly costs for individuals and families already struggling with big medical bills.

While premiums go up, out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and co-pays often follow, leaving you paying more money for less coverage.

⏰ Less Time to Decide

In 2026, the Open Enrollment window shrank to just six weeks, giving you less time to research and compare your options.

For many, that means feeling rushed into another expensive plan simply because there isn’t enough time to find a better fit.

🚫 Fewer Choices on the Marketplace

Some major insurers are pulling out of the Marketplace entirely, leaving fewer options in many states.

That can translate to limited networks, higher rates, and less flexibility when choosing providers.

Additional 2027 Marketplace Changes You Should Know About

The 14% on average premium increases and decrease in plan options are only part of the story.

There are several other possible changes coming that could have a big impact on your wallet, and your ability to stay covered:

❗ Subsidy support may decrease

Enhanced premium tax credits expired at the end of 2025. Congress has not extended them for 2026 or 2027. Without the tax credits, you might see much higher monthly costs.

❗ You may have to repay more at tax time

Repayment caps for excess subsidies are expected to be removed, meaning if your income changes, you could owe the full difference when you file taxes.

❗ Income verification will be stricter

If your income doesn’t match federal data, you’ll be required to provide documentation sooner, making enrollment more complicated and time-sensitive.

❗ Fewer opportunities to enroll mid-year

The year-round enrollment option for low-income individuals is being paused, so many people will lose the ability to enroll outside Open Enrollment – unless they have a qualifying life event.

❗ Auto-renewal may not protect your subsidies

Some subsidized plans may no longer auto-renew with full benefits. You may be required to actively confirm your plan or lose savings.

To recap, 2026 will bring higher costs, more paperwork, and more responsibility on you to stay compliant.

A Smarter, More Stable Alternative: Medical Cost Sharing with Knew Health

You don’t have to wait and see how much your premiums will rise, or settle for fewer choices.

There’s another way to care for your health – one that’s affordable, transparent, and community-driven.

At Knew Health, we’re not insurance – we’re a friendly Health Sharing Community that helps Members share in major Medical Needs while supporting everyday wellness from day one.

🌿 Here’s How Knew Health Is Different

Stable, Transparent Pricing

Our Membership rates have stayed steady for over eight years. You’ll know exactly what you’ll pay each month, with no surprise increases or hidden fees.

Whole-Person Wellness, Included

In addition to Medical Cost Sharing, your Membership includes…

✔ General Wellness visits and labs (many at no cost)

✔ 24/7 telemedicine

✔ Two free Health Coaching sessions each year

✔ A $200 annual Self-Care Credit for services like massage, acupuncture, or gym memberships

✔ Up to 95% off lab work and imaging

✔ Digital health and fitness classes

✔ Discounts on top quality supplements and popular wellness products

… and much more.

Freedom to Choose Your Own Providers

Since we're not health insurance you'll experience a different type of healthcare, one that supports your choices.

No networks.

No referrals.

You’re free to see any licensed provider, anywhere in the United States–including holistic and integrative providers.

Community Support You Can Count On

Since launching in 2019, 100% of eligible Medical Needs have been shared, giving Members peace of mind for large unexpected medical needs such as hospitalization, injury, or pregnancy all while supporting your general wellness along the way with annual exams and blood work.

💬 Real People. Real Peace of Mind.

“We’ve been with Knew Health almost a year and it’s something we should have done years ago. From the monthly cost to the excellent HUMAN customer service, it’s got more than 5 stars from my family.” – Asphalt Canvas Custom Art

🔎 Why Now is the Time to Reconsider Your Options

If you’re renewing a Marketplace or employer plan that you pay out of pocket, this Open Enrollment season is the perfect time to compare your options and maximize your savings by seeing if medical cost sharing might be a good option for you as an alternative to health insurance.