How States Are Responding to the Challenge of Financing Health Care for Retirees

Publication Date: September 2003

Publisher: Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation

Author(s):

Research Area: Health

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

State governments are an important source of health insurance coverage for retired state employees. Confronted with rising health care costs, budget deficits, and an overall downturn in the economy, this report describes how states are responding to the challenge of financing health care for retirees who tend to be sicker and more costly to cover than active workers.

This study, based on survey responses from 43 states and the District of Columbia, captures information on retiree health programs offered by state governments, including benefits, premiums, recent program changes and modifications expected in the future.