The Delaware Department of Insurance (“Department”) has launched a special section on its website for public comments with regard to the requested rate increase by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware (“Highmark”). This increase request of 33.6% applies only to health insurance plans on the Affordable Care Act Exchange. This launch comes as the DOI requests an independent actuarial review of Highmark’s proposed rate increase.

Under Delaware law, when a rate increase request is filed with the DOI, the Commissioner must consider those review findings in addition to public comments before arriving at a decision on the proposed increase. Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro stated: “Highmark’s proposed rate increase is frustrating for many hardworking Delawareans who receive their health insurance through the “Obamacare” Exchange. It is only fair that the consumers who face this increase have their concerns heard. This initiative is designed in the interest of transparency. It will provide consumers an important opportunity to give input into the rate determination process and on the proposed request pending before the Department. Consumer comments will aid the Department in arriving at the best possible decision.”

If enrollment remains constant from last year, approximately 27,000 consumers could be affected by this rate request. Consumers who wish to submit comments in response to Highmark’s proposed rate increase for Affordable Care Act plans may do so by visiting . Consumers may also submit their comments in writing to:

Delaware Department of Insurance Attn: Rate Increases
841 Silver Lake Blvd.
Dover, DE 19904

Consumers will also have the opportunity to provide comments in person before Commissioner Navarro, Highmark Executives, and the independent actuary. Public comment sessions have been scheduled for the following dates, times and locations:

New Castle County
Monday, July 31, 2017
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Carvel State Building
820 N French St
Wilmington, DE 19801

Kent County
Wednesday, August 2, 2017
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Delaware Department of Insurance
841 Silver Lake Blvd
Dover, DE 19904

Sussex County
Thursday, August 3, 2017
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Delaware Technical Community College - Owens Campus
21179 College Dr
Georgetown, DE 19947

Consumers who have questions about offering comments on the rate filing should contact the Division of Consumer Services at (302) 674-7310 or by email at consumer@state.de.us

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The Delaware Department of Insurance protects Delawareans through regulation and education while providing oversight of the insurance industry to best serve the public. Contact: Vince Ryan Office: (302) 674-7303 Mobile: (302) 387-7670 Email: vince.ryan@state.de.us