Connecticut Insurance Commissioner Katharine L. Wade has ordered public hearings on proposed rate increases by three health insurers that would affect more than 70,000 policyholders next year.
Anthem Health Plans Inc. is seeking a 4.7 percent increase, andConnectiCare Insurance Co. is proposing a 9.8 percent hike, each for about 34,000 policyholders. Golden Rule Insurance Co. has proposed an 18.5 percent increase for 2,000 customers.
Anthem said the rates take into account federal mandates, rising medical costs and increased demand.
ConnectiCare said it's accounting for medical inflation, rising demand and increased taxes. The hearings are scheduled for July 27 in Hartford.
State Health Care Advocate Vicki Veltri said members of the public must have more opportunities to offer their views as access to health insurance is broadened by the federal health care law.
