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

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Henry Schein Henry Schein, Inc. is recognized as the world's largest provider of healthcare solutions for office-based dental and medical practitioners. The company distributes a wide range of products, including dental and medical supplies, equipment, and pharmaceuticals, making it a key player in the healthcare market. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As 2026 approaches, healthcare costs are projected to rise significantly, particularly for those enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. Record premium hikes are expected, with some states eyeing increases exceeding 60%. This steep rise is primarily driven by escalating medical costs, the looming expiration of federal premium subsidies, and aggressive rate increases from major insurers. Without action from Congress to extend these enhanced subsidies, many enrollees may face out-of-pocket premium increases of over 75%, transforming healthcare affordability into a critical issue for millions. Click here to learn more

'Henry Schein 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.

'Henry Schein 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 Henry Schein 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 Henry Schein Professionals

For Henry Schein 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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Articles you may find interesting:

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 purpose of the 401(k) plan offered by Henry Schein?

The purpose of the 401(k) plan offered by Henry Schein is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis.

How can employees enroll in the Henry Schein 401(k) plan?

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

What types of contributions can employees make to the Henry Schein 401(k) plan?

Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and potentially catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older in the Henry Schein 401(k) plan.

Does Henry Schein offer any matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Henry Schein offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees boost their retirement savings.

What is the vesting schedule for the Henry Schein 401(k) matching contributions?

The vesting schedule for Henry Schein’s matching contributions typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which means employees earn ownership of the contributions over a specified period.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) balance at Henry Schein?

Yes, employees may have the option to take loans against their 401(k) balance at Henry Schein, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

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

The Henry Schein 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts in the Henry Schein 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically change their contribution amounts in the Henry Schein 401(k) plan on a quarterly basis or as specified by the plan’s rules.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Henry Schein?

If an employee leaves Henry Schein, they have several options for their 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out (subject to taxes and penalties), or leaving it in the Henry Schein plan if allowed.

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

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with the Henry Schein 401(k) plan, which are disclosed 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.

Pension Plan: Henry Schein Pension Plan Years of Service/Age Qualification: 10 years of service or age 55 with 5 years of service Pension Formula: Final average pay multiplied by years of service 401(k) Plan: Henry Schein 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Employees over 21 years of age and have completed 1 year of service Company Match: 50% match on the first 6% of contributions

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Henry Schein announced a strategic restructuring plan aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and streamlining its global operations. This decision led to a reduction in workforce by approximately 5% to align with the company's new focus on digital transformation and expanded healthcare services. This restructuring is part of a broader effort to optimize performance and adapt to evolving market conditions. Importance: Addressing this news is crucial given the current economic climate and investment environment. Companies are continuously adapting to market changes, which impacts their workforce and operational strategies. Keeping informed about such developments helps stakeholders understand the broader implications for investment and economic stability.

Henry Schein offers stock options and RSUs to its employees as part of its compensation packages. In 2022, Henry Schein provided stock options under the acronym "SO" and RSUs under "RSU" to eligible employees, including executives and key personnel. These options and units are intended to align employee interests with company performance and long-term goals. [Source: Henry Schein Annual Report 2022, Page 47]

Healthcare Benefits (2023/2024): Henry Schein offers a range of health benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage. They provide health insurance through major providers, and the plans often include wellness programs, preventative care, and employee assistance programs (EAP). They also offer flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs).

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Check Out Articles for Henry Schein employees

For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Henry Schein at , ; or by calling them at .

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