Individual and Family Plan Shopping and Switching Study
Available: February 27, 2026
Available: February 27, 2026
The ACA market heads into 2026 with more clarity than it did in 2025 when a new administration and agenda left many wondering what changes to expect. Although the market’s size may decrease coming out of the 2026 OEP, new rules may finally place the program on terra firma.
With greater stabilization on the horizon, our Individual and Family Plan Shopping and Switching Study can help you understand the decisions consumers and their agents made regarding coverage selection despite impacts to premium. The study explores how members fared with changes experienced in OEP, how they shopped for coverage, and the degree to which they turned to agents during this time of significant change.
ACA Member Network Frustrations and Consumer Response
During the 2024 Open Enrollment Period, many ACA members were more dissatisfied with limited networks that excluded their preferred doctors or hospitals compared to previous years. About 25% reported difficulty getting timely appointments, and another 25% said they couldn’t find providers who accepted their insurance.
Today’s frustrated consumers will make themselves heard about access. For now, that appears to be by voting with the click of a mouse rather than at town halls and ballot boxes.
2025 Individual and Family Plan Shopping and Switching Study SIP