The Gist Healthcare Podcast Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Oct 22, 2025
Rising costs for the 2026 ACA exchange are causing sticker shock among consumers. California is set to launch a plan for affordable insulin, aiming to sell it for $45. Meanwhile, Prospect Medical Holdings is in the spotlight with ongoing hospital sales amidst a bankruptcy crisis. Amazon Pharmacy is innovating by introducing prescription kiosks at One Medical Clinics. Lastly, a new poll reveals waning public trust in political figures, including President Trump and HHS Secretary Kennedy Jr.
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ACA Premiums Jump Ahead Of Enrollment
- ACA exchange premiums for 2026 are rising sharply in many states as rates become public ahead of open enrollment.
- The possible expiration of enhanced tax credits is a major driver and could greatly increase premiums for middle-income families.
Subsidy Expiration Threatens Affordability
- Enhanced premium tax credits introduced in 2021 are set to expire at the end of 2025 unless lawmakers extend them.
- Extending the credits would cost roughly $350 billion over 10 years but remain broadly popular across party lines.
California To Sell Low-Cost Insulin Pens
- California will sell a state-produced biosimilar insulin pen through the CalRx program starting January 1, 2026.
- The product will retail for $45 per box with a recommended consumer price cap of $55 to increase affordable access.