The second largest state in the United States in both area and population, Texas boasts diverse landscapes and a unique cultural history. The Democratic Party dominated Texas politics until the 1990s, when the Republican Party became more prominent. Texas did not support Medicaid expansion and challenged the Affordable Care Act in the Supreme Court. Texas currently has the second-highest insurance premiums in the nation, outranked only by Florida.
Enrollment through the Years
In January 2015, Texas Rep. Chris Turner moved to create a state-run exchange for healthcare coverage, but the bill ultimately failed. Texas residents currently use the federal marketplace for health insurance. Despite the state’s perceived opposition to the ACA, Texas has had impressive enrollment numbers over the last three years.
- 1,205,174 Texans enrolled in 2015
- 1,306,208 Texans enrolled in 2016
- 1,227,290 Texans enrolled in 2017
The year 2017 saw a decrease in total Obamacare enrollees even with 457,005 new applicants and 770,285 return customers. As of this year, Texas has nearly the highest number of enrollees among states that use the federal marketplace, second only to Florida.
Cost Assistance
Most Texans choosing Obamacare relied on subsidies and cost-sharing reductions to help them manage their premiums. Those earning up to 400 percent of the federal poverty limit qualify for subsidies while people earning up to 250 percent of the poverty line can apply for additional cost-sharing reductions. In 2017, 83 percent of Texas marketplace enrollees received subsidies, and 61 percent of customers qualified for cost-sharing reductions.
Carrier Participation & Plan Availability
Texas has 10 insurance carriers offering plans on the marketplace in 2017, with 4,824 plans in all. The number of carriers for 2018 has yet to be determined, but it is expected to be at least three. Providers and plans vary depending on county.
Note: The information provided on this page is constantly being updated with the latest statistical data available. Check back soon for updates.
