BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina is applying a 19 percent rate increase for Under 65, grandfathered plans ONLY (plans and freestanding drug benefits that became effective before March 23, 2010). 
Under 65, non-grandfathered plans (plans that became effective between March 24, 2010 and December 15, 2013) WILL NOT receive a rate increase.

BCBS-SC members will have FOUR options:

Keep their current health plan. Many members will find that keeping their current health plans will be the best option. By keeping their grandfathered plans, members can keep their larger network of doctors and all their current benefits.

Change benefits within their current health plans. As long as they stay within their plan types, members could lower their monthly premiums by changing their deductibles, out of pocket or coinsurance.

Please know that certain benefit changes could cause you to lose your grandfathered status. If members lose their grandfathered status, they must choose new Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans.

Shop on the Private Exchange. Members who want to make significant benefit changes but do not qualify for an Advanced Premium Tax Credit (APTC) have the option to shop for an ACA plan through the BlueCross Marketplace with the Special Enrollment Period (SEP) Qualifying Life Event (QLE) called “Loss of Minimum Essential Coverage.”

Note: Members moving from a grandfathered plan to an ACA plan will receive a new benefit period. Deductible carryover is not an option.

Members can visit www.SChealthconnector.org to quickly get a quote and compare new ACA plans to their current plans.

Shop on the Federally Facilitated Marketplace (Marketplace). Members who qualify for an APTC and want to make significant changes to their benefits have the option to shop through the Marketplace on their anniversary date, also known as their benefit period date.