Navigating Change: Financial Insights for Divorced Employees of Community Health Systems

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Community Health Systems Community Health Systems, Inc. (CHS) operates as a publicly traded healthcare management company, primarily providing hospital and healthcare services. It manages a network of acute care hospitals and outpatient care facilities across the United States, serving millions of patients annually. Brief on Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, significant healthcare cost increases are anticipated, particularly for those enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. With projections indicating some states could see premium hikes exceeding 60%, the withdrawal of enhanced federal premium subsidies will likely exacerbate the financial burden on consumers. A recent analysis suggests that without congressional intervention, over 22 million ACA enrollees could face a staggering 75% rise in out-of-pocket premium costs. Factors contributing to this situation include rising medical expenses, increased demand for healthcare services, and the sustained profitability of major insurers amidst substantial rate hikes. Click here to learn more

The latest research suggests that divorce rates in the U.S. have been falling in recent decades. Still, many people face the difficult crossroads that comes when their marriage ends.

Getting a divorce is a painful, emotional process. Don’t be in such a hurry to reach a settlement that you make poor decisions that can have life-long consequences. For any of our Community Health Systems clients who may possibly have to have a divorce, here are a few financial ideas that may help you prepare.

The most important task these Community Health Systems employees can do is to get their finances organized. Identify all your assets and make copies of important financial papers, such as deeds, tax returns, and investment records. When it comes to dividing up your assets, consider mediation as a low-cost alternative to litigation. Most states have equitable-distribution laws that require shared assets to be divided 50/50 anyway. When a divorce becomes contentious, attorney’s fees can accumulate.

From a financial perspective, divorce means taking all the income previously used to run one household and stretching it out over two residences, two utility bills, two grocery lists, etc. There are other hidden costs as well, such as counseling for you or your children. Divorces also may require incurring one-time fees, such as a security deposit on a rental property, moving costs, or increased child-care.

Finally, dividing assets may sound simple but it can be quite complex. The forced sale of a home or investment portfolio may have tax consequences. Potential tax liability also can make two seemingly equal assets have varying net values. Additionally, when pulling apart a portfolio, it makes sense to consider how each asset will suit the prospective recipient in terms of risk tolerance and liquidity.

Articles you may find interesting:

We'd like our Community Health Systems clients to remember, the information in this article is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.

During a divorce, many factors are competing for attention. By these Community Health Systems employees understanding a few key concepts, they may be able to avoid making costly financial mistakes.

1. The Wall Street Journal, 2019