2027 Marketplace plans: what Tennesseans need to know

Key Takeaways

• Open enrollment for next year’s Marketplace plans will run from Nov. 1, 2026 to Jan. 15, 2027. Shoppers can enroll on HealthCare.gov.
• The costs for medical services and prescription drugs are continuing to rise, and those prices have the largest impact on what Tennesseans pay for health coverage. BlueCross rates will increase an average 10.5% to cover the cost of care for our Marketplace members.
• We’re offering 14 plans with a variety of benefits including mental health support, $0 virtual care, and programs that help manage health conditions like diabetes.

For those who buy their own health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, open enrollment for 2027 begins Nov. 1. Whether you’re renewing your current plan or shopping for something new, it’s worth taking time to review your needs and compare your options.

At BlueCross, we’ll offer 14 individual Marketplace plans statewide, with options designed to meet different health care needs and budgets. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you get ready to enroll.

Changes you’ll see in 2027

Our Marketplace plans will have an average rate increase of 10.5%. The change for individual members will vary depending on their plan, as well as their specific household and income information.

Each year, we set our rates based on what we expect it will cost to cover medical care and prescription drugs for our Marketplace members in the coming year. As costs change year to year, premiums can change, too. If you’re currently enrolled, it’s especially important to review your coverage rather than simply letting your current plan renew.

More choices to fit different needs

For 2027, BlueCross will offer 14 Marketplace plans statewide, with:

• Bronze, Silver and Gold options
• A choice between our broader Blue Network S and our lower-cost Blue Network E
• Plans with set copays for primary care, behavioral health and specialist visits
• Prescription drug copays on many plans

When you’re comparing plans, think about how you and your family use health care, and whether your needs have changed since last year.

Consider whether you want the lowest monthly premium or lower costs when you receive care. When you review each plan’s deductible, out-of-pocket limit, copays and coinsurance, you could find that a plan with a lower monthly premium may not be the least expensive choice overall if you expect to use more healthcare services during the year.

Benefits and services included with every BlueCross plan

Whichever BlueCross Marketplace plan you choose, you’ll have access to benefits and services that can help you take care of your health.

All plans include:

• $0 cost for covered in-network preventive care services including vaccinations, wellness exams, mammograms and diabetes screenings
• $0 virtual care through Teladoc Health including the ability to:
  • Talk with a doctor any time, day or night
  • Access mental health and primary care services for members ages 13 and older
  • Visit a dermatologist or nutritionist
  • Enroll in diabetes management or tobacco cessation program
• Pediatric vision coverage
• A dedicated care support team of health navigators to help coordinate care needs
• Member rewards, including fitness membership discounts, an online wellness center and the opportunity to earn up to $200 in gift cards for healthy activities

If you already have a BlueCross Marketplace plan

We’re sending current members renewal letters and emails with information about their 2027 rates and benefits. Take a few minutes to review that information carefully, even if you’re happy with your current coverage. These notices include important details such as:

• Estimated 2027 premiums
• Information about federal financial assistance through the Health Insurance Marketplace
• Benefit changes
• Prescription drug and coverage resources
• Instructions for keeping your current plan or choosing a new one

Visit HealthCare.gov and make sure your household size and income are correct and up to date in the system. Providing accurate information helps determine the right amount of federal financial assistance you may be eligible to receive through the Health Insurance Marketplace, and can help you avoid having to repay excess advance premium tax credits later.

Then compare your current plan with the other choices available to you. Your health needs, finances or plan options may have changed since the last time you enrolled.

Four questions to ask before choosing a plan

With several factors to consider, start with these:

1. What healthcare services am I likely to need?
   Think about regular doctor visits, specialists and any procedures you expect to need for yourself or your family.
2. What prescriptions will I need?
   Make a list of the medications you take and review your selected plan’s formulary to make sure they’re covered. Renewal materials will include details about prescription drug coverage and links to documents that can help you compare options.
3. What will I actually pay?
   Look beyond the premium. Compare deductibles, copays, coinsurance and out-of-pocket limits to get a more complete picture of what each plan could cost you. And update your financial information to see if you qualify for federal financial assistance through the Health Insurance Marketplace that could help lower your share of the premiums.
4. Are my doctors and hospitals in the network?
   Provider networks can differ between plans. Check that the doctors, specialists and facilities you want to use participate in the network before enrolling.

We’ll help you understand your plan options

Marketplace customers can “window-shop” a few days before plans become available Nov. 1, and the annual Marketplace enrollment period ends on Jan. 15, 2027.

If you need help comparing your options in the weeks to come, visit BCBST.com, contact BlueCross directly or talk with a licensed broker or agent to find a plan choice that supports your health and budget.

Taking a little time to consider key questions and compare plans now can help you feel confident about your coverage decisions.