New Hampshire faces rising health care costs and coverage loss in 2026

TO THE EDITOR:

New Hampshire’s health care system could face one of its most significant challenges in decades, with thousands of residents at risk of losing coverage and costs projected to rise sharply in 2026. Federal and state budget changes will reduce funding for Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, programs that provide essential care for low-income families, seniors, children and people with disabilities.

Experts warn that as many as 15 million Americans — including thousands in New Hampshire — could lose coverage. In rural parts of the state, cuts to Medicaid could lead to hospital and clinic closures, forcing patients to travel farther for care and increasing strain on remaining providers.

Insurance premiums for individuals who buy their own coverage are expected to rise by an average of 18% nationwide, with some families seeing increases as high as 70%.

For many Granite Staters, this will mean hundreds or even thousands of dollars in additional out-of-pocket costs each year.

The ripple effects could be far-reaching. Higher premiums and reduced coverage will likely increase the number of people relying on emergency rooms for care, raising costs for hospitals and leading to higher premiums for those with employer-based insurance. Rural hospitals, already operating on thin margins, may be at risk of closing, further limiting access to maternity care, specialty services and urgent treatment.

Without intervention, these changes could impact not only health outcomes but also the state’s economy, workforce stability, and ability to retain and attract residents.

J.H. SIMÕES CONCORD

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