Global Health Insurance Under Pressure: Premium Hikes, System Failures, and Subsidy Risks
Which Swiss cantons will see highest hikes in health insurance premiums?
24 Sep 2025
Health insurance premiums in Switzerland are set to rise by 4.4% in 2026, averaging an increase of CHF 16.60 per month. However, the impact varies significantly across cantons. Residents of Ticino will face the steepest hike at 6.9%, with monthly premiums reaching CHF 582. Other cantons with notable increases include Valais (5.8%), Appenzell Innerrhoden (5.5%), Uri (5.3%), Zurich (5.1%), and Graubünden (5%). Conversely, Zug stands out by reducing premiums by 15% due to a substantial financial surplus, covering 99% of hospital costs for its residents.
Denied, delayed, dismissed: Inside India’s broken health insurance system
23 Sep 2025
Health insurance in India is meant to protect families from financial hardship during medical emergencies, but in practice it often fails. Rising premiums, bureaucratic delays, claim denials by TPAs, and inflated hospital bills leave patients vulnerable. Many families struggle to understand complex policies while facing bills that insurers refuse to cover. Despite the system’s growth, it has not become more dependable, turning insurance into a gamble rather than a safety net.
Alaskans would see spike in health insurance rates if Congress lets subsidies expire
23 Sep 2025
Thousands of Alaskans could lose health insurance subsidies at the end of December, causing premiums to skyrocket. For example, a couple in their 60s earning $53,000 each could see their insurance costs rise from less than 9% of their income to nearly 50%. The subsidies, known as enhanced premium tax credits, were introduced during the COVID pandemic and expanded ACA coverage. If they expire, many Alaskans may forgo insurance and routine care, increasing pressure on hospitals and emergency services. Lawmakers and state officials are urging Congress to extend the credits to prevent this crisis.
