Happy Columbus Day! Denise and Hunter kicked off today’s Newsmakers at Noon with a little nostalgia, “In fourteen hundred ninety-two, Columbus sailed the ocean blue!” We revisited that familiar childhood rhyme, the Niña, Pinta and Santa María, and the celebration of Italian American heritage throughout October. Even the Empire State Building is getting into the spirit, with plans to light up in green, white and red tonight!
Then we turned to a subject hitting Oregonians right in the pocketbook: the rising cost of health insurance and the shrinking number of choices available to consumers.
TJ Sullivan, Dawn Miller Kay and Beth Black from Hagan Hamilton Insurance joined us for an informative conversation about what’s happening in Oregon’s changing health insurance marketplace, and why.
We explored why some insurance carriers are changing their participation, what’s driving higher premiums, and why the problem is far more complicated than simply blaming insurance companies. Hospitals, prescription drugs, government regulations and the overall cost of medical care all play a role.
Dawn brought a local perspective focused on Marion and Polk counties, while Beth helped explain the challenges facing small businesses trying to provide affordable employee coverage.
And importantly, we got practical! Our guests shared some valuable insurance hacks and advice on comparing plans, understanding deductibles, checking provider networks and making smarter decisions with increasingly expensive health-care dollars.
The big takeaway? Don’t just look at the monthly premium, and don’t assume your current plan is still your best option. Understanding what you’re buying, and getting knowledgeable help, can make a real difference.
This was a particularly useful hour with three insurance professionals who know the Oregon market and understand the challenges facing families, individuals and employers.
🎙️ If you’re paying for health insurance, shopping for coverage or preparing for renewal, this is a show worth hearing!
Links from Today’s Show
