State employees, public school teachers, and retirees will pay 5% more for health insurance coverage next year on average. The Georgia Board of Community Health approved the premium increase Thursday, only the second in the last six years.
The increase, which takes effect Jan. 1, will cost enrollees in the State Health Benefit Plan (SHBP) $7.25 per month on average for those covered through individual plans and $23.61 a month for families. The state Department of Community Health held SHBP premiums flat in 2019, 2020, 2022 and 2023. Premiums increased by 5% in 2021.
But the costs of health care are on the rise following the COVID pandemic, as enrollees who put off wellness checks during the pandemic – including cancer screenings – are resuming those appointments. Open enrollment for 2024 will begin Oct. 16 and run through Nov. 3.
