Article: Health insurance premiums hold steady, but future hikes likely

Workers feel the squeeze as cost-sharing rises faster than inflation, wages

WASHINGTON, D.C-Employer-sponsored health-insurance plan premiums increased only 6% in 2007, less than the last four years. However, insurance costs are rising much faster than inflation and wages, according to a leading survey of employer health benefits. Premiums now average more than $12,000 for family coverage (almost $4,500 for individuals), pricing many workers out of the market.

Moreover, employee contributions for coverage are significantly higher than amounts reported in 2006; they have doubled since 2000 to now average $273 a month, noted Kaiser Family Foundation president Drew Altman in unveiling the 2007 ...

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