1. Increases in Health Insurance Premiums Compared with Other Indicators, 1988–2007
Percent *
Premiums are growing at rates more than twice that of other indicators such as wages and consumer price inflation. The average annual cost of family coverage in employer-based health plans, [including employer and employee contributions,] topped $12,680 in 2008—more than the average yearly earnings of a full-time worker earning the minimum wage.
* Estimate is statistically different from the previous year shown at p<0.05.
^ Estimate is statistically different from the previous year shown at p<0.1.
Note: Data on premium increases reflect the cost of health insurance premiums for a family of four. Historical estimates of workers’ earnings have been updated to reflect new industry classifications (NAICS).
Source: G. Claxton, J. Gabel et al., "Health Benefits In 2008: Premiums Moderately Higher, While Enrollment In Consumer-Directed Plans Rises In Small Firms," Health Affairs, Sept./Oct (6): w Kaiser/HRET Survey of Employer-Sponsored Health Benefits, S. Keehan, A. Sisko et al., “Health Spending Projections Through 2017: The Baby-Boom Generation is coming to Medicare,” Health Affairs, March/April (2):w