Small Group Health Plan Rate Change (Choice Complete and Choice Select)
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This document explains a premium rate adjustment for BlueChoice HealthPlan small group products (Choice Complete and Choice Select) affecting members at renewal beginning January 1, 2026. It describes reasons for the change, financial experience, benefit updates, and administrative cost considerations.
Rate adjustment effective January 1, 2026 for Small Group plans to cover future changes in medical costs.
Changes to deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums on some plans to comply with 2026 NBPP and IRS HSA guidance.
Drivers and Coverage Implications
Drivers of rate change and benefit adjustments
Factors driving increased claim costs and benefit changes:
Drivers
Increased medical service costs (any of the following):
- Hospitals and doctors charging more for services.
- More individuals seeking treatment (increased utilization).
- Higher drug costs.
- Benefit adjustments: Changes to deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums on some plans were implemented to comply with the 2026 Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters and IRS guidance for HSA-qualified High Deductible Health Plans.
Coding & HSA Compliance Notes
| No codes listed |
Provider Impact and Member Rebates
Rebate provision for 2026 Small Group paid claims
If paid claims in 2026 are significantly less than anticipated, rebates will be issued to Small Group members to return excess premium funds.
Term: HSA-qualified HDHP
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