JACKSON, Mississippi (AP) — Mississippi is one of the poorest states in the nation, and its residents will pay some of the highest premiums under a federally run health insurance exchange.
The federal government released information Wednesday showing the estimated cost of a mid-range plan will be $448 a month in Mississippi. That compares to an average of $328 in 47 states and the District of Columbia.
Costs are lower when tax breaks are applied for those eligible.
People can start buying coverage Oct. 1. Two companies will participate in the exchange in Mississippi.
Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney says Mississippi’s rates are high because of expensive health conditions and the relatively high cost of health care delivery.
The only states with higher monthly premiums than Mississippi are Wyoming, at $516; and Alaska, at $474.
