Seven Trends Reshaping International Private Health Insurance In 2026 and Beyond

2 February 2026

Global private health insurance is being transformed by rising medical costs, AI adoption, and shifting wealth patterns, alongside evolving client expectations. Insurers are increasingly offering innovative and inclusive coverage, emphasizing preventative care, mental health, and early detection, while flexible, modular plans cater to SMEs, digital nomads, and short-term assignments. AI and digital tools are streamlining claims, multilingual support, and cost management, helping clients navigate premium pressures. Insurers who adapt to these trends can position themselves as partners in wellbeing, not just providers of reactive medical coverage.

Croatia’s new supplementary health insurance price takes effect today

1 February 2026

Croatia’s Health Insurance Fund (HZZO) has raised the annual cost of supplementary health insurance from €111.49 to €180 (€15/month), effective 1 February 2026, for both existing and new policyholders. The increase reflects rising healthcare costs, including medical services, supplies, wages, and broader inflationary pressures. Certain groups, such as low-income and vulnerable individuals, will continue to receive free coverage funded by the state. HZZO says the new pricing ensures the financial sustainability of Croatia’s public healthcare system while maintaining broad access.

The Downstream Effects of Rising Health Insurance Costs

29 January 2026

Health insurance costs in the U.S. have risen sharply in 2026 due to expiring ACA subsidies, Medicaid funding cuts, and overall increases in health spending. Higher premiums often push healthier individuals to drop coverage, leaving sicker patients to bear rising costs, which can lead to skipped preventive care and more expensive treatments later. This contributes to medical debt, a leading cause of bankruptcy, and worsens financial and health outcomes for households. Experts stress that government health spending accounts cannot fully replace comprehensive insurance coverage. Those struggling with affordability are advised to explore Medicaid, community clinics, charity programs, and special enrollment opportunities to maintain access to care.

Americans’ Challenges with Health Care Costs

29 January 2026

High health care costs remain a major burden for U.S. adults, with about 44% saying it is difficult to afford care and nearly one-third reporting problems paying medical bills in the past year. Cost concerns lead many to skip or delay care (36%), and prescription costs force some to reduce or forgo medications. Health care debt affects 41% of adults, disproportionately impacting lower-income, uninsured, Black, and Hispanic populations. Even insured Americans worry about premiums and out-of-pocket expenses, and half of adults could not cover an unexpected $500 medical bill without going into debt. Older adults are also concerned about affording long-term care and support services.