New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Enovis Retirees Face ACA Premium Shock—Here’s How Others Are Responding

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Enovis Enovis Corporation focuses primarily on innovative medical technologies and doesn't act as a traditional healthcare provider. Instead, their products are frequently utilized by healthcare providers, including hospitals and outpatient clinics, to enhance patient outcomes in areas such as orthopedic rehabilitation and musculoskeletal health. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As 2026 approaches, significant hikes in healthcare costs are anticipated, driven primarily by soaring drug prices, rising hospital admissions, and increasing behavioral health needs. A recent analysis indicates medical costs are forecasted to rise by approximately 8.5% for group plans and 7.5% for individual market plans. The impending expiration of enhanced federal subsidies is also likely to exacerbate these increases, potentially leading to a dramatic 75% rise in out-of-pocket premiums for policyholders, significantly impacting consumers' access to affordable coverage. As insurers navigate these challenges, cost control measures will be crucial in preserving the financial viability of healthcare for many Americans. Click here to learn more

'Enovis employees approaching retirement should recognize that proactive income and health care planning can make the difference between preserving subsidy eligibility and facing sharply higher ACA premiums.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Enovis employees planning their retirement should consider how income levels influence ACA subsidies, as even small adjustments in taxable withdrawals can affect future health care affordability.' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

How the expiration of enhanced ACA subsidies after 2025 could impact health care costs for retirees and early retirees.
Real-life case studies illustrating how different individuals are adjusting to rising ACA premiums.
Practical steps Enovis professionals can take before enrolling in 2026 Marketplace plans.

by Brent Wolf, CFP®, Wealth Enhancement

As open enrollment for 2026 Marketplace plans begins, many households are seeing dramatic shifts in their renewal letters. Rising base premiums and the possible end of enhanced subsidies after 2025 could mean significantly higher out-of-pocket costs for anyone purchasing coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) exchange.

The Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) estimates that if Congress does not extend enhanced premium tax credits, average net premium payments could more than double in 2026. ¹

“It feels like a second mortgage to pay this premium.”

Profile: A couple in their early 60s who retired a few years before becoming Medicare-eligible.

What changed: Their ACA premium had been manageable due to increased subsidies. Their renewal now indicates a rise of about $1,000 to $1,200 monthly if enhanced credits expire.

Decision pressure: They faced hard choices—drawing more taxable income from IRAs, going without coverage, or returning to the workforce for employer-based insurance.

Our response: We reworked their income plan to align with the ACA’s income-based subsidy structure. By controlling their Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) through smaller IRA withdrawals, use of cash reserves, and partial Roth conversions, we kept them eligible for key subsidies. Comparing a Bronze high-deductible plan with a health savings account (HSA) to a Silver plan revealed the Silver plan—thanks to cost-sharing reductions—was more economical given their expected medical treatments.

“I can’t risk losing coverage while battling an illness.”

Profile: A single client in her early 60s undergoing ongoing medical treatment.

What changed: Without enhanced subsidies, her premiums nearly tripled.

Decision pressure: Balancing affordability with the need to keep her care team and prescriptions consistent.

Our response: We prioritized staying with her provider network and controlling her out-of-pocket costs. A dedicated “medical reserve” fund—equal to one year’s maximum out-of-pocket limit—gave her a cushion without liquidating investments during market declines. We also worked with her physicians to identify lower-cost prescriptions through her plan’s formulary.

“The new premiums are hurting our business margins.”

Profile: A self-employed couple—one partner managing asthma and the other a cardiac rhythm condition.

What changed: Without subsidies, their net premiums are expected to rise sharply.

Decision pressure: Continue paying high premiums, choose a plan with a very high deductible, or seek W-2 employment for benefits.

Our response: We compared total annual costs for a Silver plan versus a Bronze option, factoring in frequent specialist visits and prescriptions. Once total medical costs were considered, the Silver plan proved more cost-effective. We also aligned their life and disability coverage and tailored their tax approach to reflect potential changes in premium tax credits.

“I’m young and healthy—do I even need full coverage?”

Profile: An independent contractor in their 20s with minimal expected medical use.

What changed: Premiums for mid- and high-tier plans nearly quadrupled.

Decision pressure: Choosing between a high-deductible Bronze HSA plan and catastrophic coverage.

Our response: We modeled three options—a Bronze HSA-eligible plan, a mid-tier plan, and catastrophic coverage. The Bronze HSA option offered the best mix of lower premiums and long-term tax benefits. Monthly automated HSA contributions build a future medical fund that can later be used for qualified health care expenses or Medicare premiums (excluding Medigap) after age 65.

Five Steps to Take Before You Enroll

1. Evaluate your total annual cost, not just the premium. Factor in deductibles, copays, and the possibility of reaching your out-of-pocket maximum.

2. Manage your MAGI carefully. ACA subsidies depend on income. Coordinate Roth conversions, capital gains, and IRA withdrawals strategically.

3. Verify your doctor and prescription coverage. Always confirm your plan’s provider network and formulary before enrolling.

4. Maintain a medical reserve fund. Hold six to 12 months of premiums plus a portion of your maximum out-of-pocket in cash or short-term Treasuries.

5. Finalize your plan by December 15. Open Enrollment for 2026 coverage ends on December 15, with plans effective January 1.

If Affordability Is a Concern

Choosing to go without insurance can expose you to serious financial strain in case of illness or accident. Consider the most affordable Bronze plan that still meets ACA minimum coverage requirements. If your income decreases during the year, you may become eligible for Medicaid or CHIP and qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. ²

How The Retirement Group Supports Enovis Professionals

For Enovis employees approaching or already in retirement, the intersection of rising health care costs and income planning can be complex. The Retirement Group focuses on helping clients navigate ACA subsidy rules, tax-efficient withdrawal strategies, and health care cost planning during retirement transitions.

To speak with an advisor about aligning your retirement income and health care planning, call (800) 900-5867 today.

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Sources:

1. Cox, Cynthia, et al. “ACA Marketplace Premium Payments Would More Than Double on Average Next Year if Enhanced Premium Tax Credits Expire.” Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) , 2025, pp. n.p., https://www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/aca-marketplace-premium-payments-would-more-than-double-on-average-next-year-if-enhanced-premium-tax-credits-expire/ .
2. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. ' Understanding Special Enrollment Periods. ' June 2025.
Other resources:
1. “When Can You Get Health Insurance? | Dates & Deadlines.” HealthCare.gov , U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, n.d., https://www.healthcare.gov/quick-guide/dates-and-deadlines/ .
2. Publication 969: Health Savings Accounts and Other Tax-Favoured Health Plans. Internal Revenue Service, 2024, pp. 8–9, https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p969.pdf .
3. “Silver vs. Bronze Plan Selection: Cost-Comparison Scenarios.” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) , 23 Dec. 2024, pp. 1–3, https://www.cms.gov/files/document/silver-vs-bronze-cost-comparison-scenario-resource.pdf .
4. Murphy, Tom. “Expect Health Insurance Prices to Rise Next Year, Brokers Say.” AP News , Associated Press, 24 Aug. 2025, https://apnews.com/article/health-insurance-drug-costs-2026-rates-c4d865ec09c7088ecc6b55dc520f3566 .

What is the Enovis 401(k) plan?

The Enovis 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary for retirement on a tax-deferred basis.

How can I enroll in the Enovis 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the Enovis 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company's HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Enovis offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Enovis offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in the Enovis 401(k) plan?

To be eligible to participate in the Enovis 401(k) plan, employees must meet specific criteria, which typically include being a full-time employee and completing a certain period of service.

How much can I contribute to the Enovis 401(k) plan?

Employees can contribute up to the IRS limit set for 401(k) plans each year. Enovis may also allow for additional catch-up contributions for eligible employees.

Can I change my contribution percentage in the Enovis 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage at any time by accessing their account through the Enovis HR portal or contacting HR.

What investment options are available in the Enovis 401(k) plan?

The Enovis 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

When can I access my Enovis 401(k) funds?

Employees can access their Enovis 401(k) funds upon reaching retirement age, or under certain circumstances such as financial hardship or termination of employment.

Are there any fees associated with the Enovis 401(k) plan?

Yes, the Enovis 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related expenses, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.

How does the Enovis 401(k) plan handle loans?

The Enovis 401(k) plan allows eligible employees to take loans against their vested balance, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan documents.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Enovis offers its employees a comprehensive 401(k) plan, which includes employer matching contributions of up to 4%. Employees are fully vested in the 401(k) plan from day one, providing immediate access to the matched funds (Enovis) (Enovis). The 401(k) plan at Enovis is designed to assist employees in preparing for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their pre-tax earnings. Enovis' plan follows standard 401(k) terminology, offering both traditional and Roth options, providing flexibility depending on employees' tax preferences and retirement strategies. The Enovis pension plan details are less prominently outlined but involve specific eligibility criteria based on years of service and age qualifications, typical in defined benefit plans. Enovis also refers to the pension plan using common acronyms such as DB (Defined Benefit) and includes terminology like vesting periods, accrual rates, and final average pay calculations.

Restructuring and Layoffs: Enovis announced in March 2024 a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. This move included a reduction in workforce by 10%, affecting various departments across the company. The company stated that the restructuring was necessary to improve efficiency and adapt to changing market conditions.

Enovis Corporation (NYSE: ENOV), a leading medical technology growth company, provides stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to its employees as part of its compensation strategy. The stock options at Enovis are typically offered to senior executives and key personnel as incentives for performance and growth. RSUs are also granted, particularly to employees who contribute to long-term strategic projects. RSUs are awarded based on performance criteria and vest over time, aligning employees' interests with shareholders. In 2022, Enovis expanded its stock-based compensation, especially in its Reconstructive and Prevention segments. This growth resulted in a broader distribution of stock options and RSUs across various levels of management. The company reported significant innovation in its financial results, with stock options contributing to long-term employee retention

Visit Enovis's official website. Look for sections such as "Careers," "Employee Benefits," or "Corporate Responsibility" where health benefits are typically detailed. Check their latest press releases or news updates that might include changes to health benefits. Search for Enovis's annual reports or SEC filings (e.g., 10-K reports) which often include details about employee benefits and changes. Job Listings and Career Pages: Explore job postings on Enovis’s career page or job boards. Sometimes, benefits information is included in job descriptions. News Outlets and Business Journals: