More Hoosiers go uninsured, resulting in higher emergency department usage

(INDIANA CAPITAL CHRONICLE) — Indiana hospitals are reporting a double-digit increase in the percentage of emergency department visits since the start of 2025 — a rate that is expected to climb as more Hoosiers go without health insurance or opt for high-deductible plans to offset surging premiums.

Nearly 60,000 fewer Hoosiers signed up for insurance through the Affordable Care Act exchanges this year following the expiration of enhanced tax credits that once kept their monthly premiums low, researchers from health policy group KFF found in an analysis last month.

Another 400,000 Hoosiers are no longer covered by Medicaid since the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration imposed additional eligibility checks, with still more Hoosiers expected to lose coverage when work requirements take effect in January.

Meanwhile, those insured through employer plans are reporting unsustainable monthly premiums, pressuring them to consider high-deductible plans or forego coverage altogether.

Health and anti-poverty advocates say the trends could result in worse health outcomes, ...