Health care premiums in Texas rose nearly 71/2 times faster than working families’ incomes over the past six years, according to a report released Oct. 30 by a consumer health advocacy group.
Families USA of Washington said the cost of health insurance rose nearly 80 percent between 2000 and 2006, while median earnings rose just 11 percent.
Health insurance premiums rose from about $6,700 to about $12,000, while the median income rose from $23,000 to $25,500, said the report, which was based on information from federal agencies.
Both employers and employees are facing higher costs for their share of the premiums, the group said.
This year, employers paid about $8,600 and employees paid $3,300 for family health coverage. That’s up from $4,900 and $1,800 six years ago.
Families USA, which promotes universal health coverage, said the premiums rose even though Texas families are receiving fewer benefits and paying higher co-payments and deductibles.
About 5.5 million Texans – or one in four residents – lack health insurance. That’s the highest rate in the nation.
Topics Trends Texas Profit Loss
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