LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Health insurance costs are surging for students and staff enrolled in plans offered by the University of Nebraska.
The Lincoln Journal Star reports that more than 5,000 students and faculty are facing a nearly 20% hike to their premiums next year.
Individual plan costs are rising from $2,588 to $3,067. Family plans are increasing from $7,357 to $8,958. The university’s provider is United Healthcare.
Some students and faculty say they were blindsided by the change. A majority of the people enrolled are international students and graduate students pursuing advanced degrees.
A university spokeswoman says administrators have heard student and faculty concerns, but that health care costs are skyrocketing across the country.
It’s the second year that student health insurance premiums have risen by double-digits. Premiums rose by 10% last year.
