Premium increases for Affordable Care Act (ACA) health plans are on the horizon, with millions of Americans facing the risk of losing coverage if federal subsidies are allowed to lapse. The latest episode of “What the Health?” — KFF Health News’ weekly podcast — highlights how changes in health policy and political priorities are shifting the national conversation from Medicaid to the ACA and beyond.
ACA Subsidies Set to Expire, Driving Up Premiums
Many Americans will likely see higher insurance premiums in 2026, especially those relying on marketplace plans created by the ACA. The enhanced federal subsidies that currently make these plans affordable are scheduled to expire soon. Despite the looming threat of millions losing coverage, Republican lawmakers remain hesitant to renew the subsidies — a stance that may impact even their own constituents.
Rural Health Support May Fall Short
To soften the blow of recent Medicaid cuts enacted through a sweeping budget bill signed by former President Donald Trump, lawmakers included a $50 billion fund to support rural health care. However, experts warn the fund will be insufficient to address the broader impact of coverage losses. Without insurance reimbursements, rural clinics, hospitals, and health systems may face increasing financial strain.
Abortion Pill Faces Renewed Scrutiny
Abortion rights remain in political crosshairs as opponents push claims against the safety of mifepristone, a widely used abortion pill. Some lawmakers are pressuring federal regulators to reconsider its approval, citing questionable research. These efforts come as many Planned Parenthood clinics brace for an end to federal funding — affecting not just abortion services, but also access to contraception, STI testing, and other health care in states where abortion is restricted.
Ethical Opt-Out Laws Affect Prenatal Care Access
The rise of state laws that allow health care providers to refuse services based on personal beliefs is beginning to show real-world consequences. In Tennessee, an unmarried pregnant woman reported being denied prenatal care after her doctor refused to treat her for moral reasons. These laws are raising growing concerns over patients’ access to essential health care.
Medicare at 60: A Milestone Reflection
In recognition of Medicare’s 60th anniversary this month, podcast host Julie Rovner speaks with Jonathan Oberlander, a health policy professor at the University of North Carolina and noted Medicare historian. The discussion explores how Medicare has evolved — and what the future may hold as demographic and political pressures continue to shape the program.
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