Why Are Health Insurance Rates Rising And What Does It Mean For Consumers? Ask The Experts.

Ms. Bebinger explains: "In order to keep the rates from going up even higher, we will see higher deductibles: $1,000 had been the accepted rate in Massachusetts, but it could go up to $1,500 or $2,000. We’re going to see higher co-pays, we’re going to see tiering for doctors and hospitals; you know the way we pay different co-pays for prescription drugs now, you’ll see that for doctors and hospitals as well, based on their rating."

If you're confused by any (or all) of this, join Ms. Bebinger and Brian Rosman, research director with the advocacy group Health Care For All for a live online chat at noon today on WBUR.org. They want your input! And they wonder: Can you still afford health insurance? Are you changing where or when you get care based on the cost? What are your suggestions for lowering health care costs?

Join the discussion at WBUR.org