CMS Wants More 'Catastrophic' Health Plans in ACA Exchanges

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Source: MedPage Today

Original: https://www.medpagetoday.com/publichealthpolicy/washington-watch/119844...

Published: Wed, 11 Feb 2026 15:41:50 -0500

CMS is proposing to expand the availability of catastrophic health plans on the ACA exchanges to people over age 30 who are not eligible for premium tax credits or deductible reductions.[1] These plans have low monthly premiums but high deductibles—for 2026, it's $10,600 for an individual and $21,200 for a family.[1] It is proposed to allow for multi-year catastrophic plans for up to 10 years with contributions for preventive services before the deductible is reached.[2] CMS will remove the requirement for standardized plans and restrictions on non-standardized plans, giving insurers more flexibility in plan design.[1][3] The changes come after more generous financial contributions expire at the end of 2025, when premiums have risen and enrollment has dropped to nearly 23 million.[1] Public comments on the proposal are due by March 11.[1]