I was just informed by my insurance agent that due to my medical history over the past year, the premiums for the group plan that I am with are going to increase by 40%. Is this legal? What are the current restrictions for this sort of thing under the law? I live in Kentucky, is this a state-by-state thing?

The group plan (Anthem BC/BS) is small, through a small office where only three families are members. It really seems unfair that all have to be subject to the rate increase.

Other than accepting the rate increase, what are my options?

My medical treatment has been for:
. hernia operation a year almost two years ago
. ablation procedure for atrial tachycardia (heart arrhythmia), 9 months ago
. pleurisy 2 months ago

Yes, it sounds bad, but these were all one time occurences and not indicative of my general health, which is good. (a few things break when you reach 45 or so)

Thanks for any advice.

-brad

Brad,

What is the monthly amount that each of the three members is paying before and after the increase?