DETROIT, MI (AP)-- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is extending a rate freeze through Dec. 31 on some plans.
The health insurer says Wednesday that the freeze in its Legacy Medigap supplement plans will help nearly 200,000 subscribers prepare for rate hikes that will start Jan. 1, 2017.
It says the increases will be the first since 2011 for the plans. The plans expand Medicare benefits while lowering the total cost members pay for health care.
After Jan. 1, the Michigan Health Endowment Fund will provide financial support for low-income Medigap enrollees.
Rate increases in Legacy Medigap Plan C Blue Cross' most popular option will range in southeast Michigan from about $48 per month to $177 per month.
Reasons for the increases include an end to a subsidy program.
