As health insurance premiums climb for many Maryland residents in 2026—driven largely by the expiration of enhanced federal premium tax credits—experts urge policyholders to maximize their coverage by understanding plan details and utilizing available benefits.
The Maryland Insurance Administration approved an average 13.4% increase for individual Affordable Care Act marketplace plans effective 2026, reflecting the loss of federal subsidies that previously lowered costs for thousands. This adjustment, finalized in September 2025, aimed to account for anticipated enrollment shifts and higher underlying medical expenses, though Maryland’s new state Premium Assistance program softened the impact for lower- and middle-income enrollees.
A study cited by the Plan Sponsors Council of America indicates that a quarter of Marylanders have little to no knowledge of their health insurance plans, leaving them potentially unable to access full value amid rising monthly costs.
Amy Jordan, vice president of consumer experience for UnitedHealthcare, emphasizes starting with digital tools. “I always say, the best step is to download an app or log on to the website and truly kind of understand what’s there,” Jordan recommended. “Reach out to your member services team – that’s a part of it – to get some of that support and understanding of the plans so that when the time comes that you need care, that you’re actually able to understand exactly where to go and how to navigate.”
She notes that plan-specific platforms provide tailored content to help members locate in-network providers, check coverage, and manage care effectively.
Mika Hamer, assistant professor of health policy and management at the University of Maryland, advises learning core terms such as deductibles and co-pays while exploring broader perks. Many insurers include incentives for preventive health, such as gym memberships, grocery delivery services through apps, or access to health coaches.
“Think about taking a more expansive view about what are the things, habits and behaviors that we typically think of as engaging in to better our own health,” Hamer suggested. “Chances are your insurance company is thinking about that as well, and they likely have some sort of benefit in place that you could use to make that more affordable and more accessible for you.”
Experts further recommend discussing mental health benefits with primary care physicians, given ongoing national increases in mental health needs. Plans often cover counseling, therapy, or telehealth options that can reduce out-of-pocket costs when used appropriately.
In Southern Maryland, where residents rely on statewide marketplace options through Maryland Health Connection, these strategies prove especially relevant. The region’s mix of rural and suburban areas can limit provider access, making in-network navigation critical to avoid surprise bills. State resources, including the Maryland Premium Assistance program, continue to support affordability for eligible families, with over 177,000 Marylanders receiving aid as of early 2026 data.
Proactive steps—reviewing plan documents, contacting support lines, and activating wellness perks—help offset premium pressures and promote better health outcomes. Residents can explore their specific benefits via insurer apps, websites, or Maryland Health Connection tools to ensure coverage aligns with personal needs amid the 2026 changes.
