Health Insurance Coverage for Retirees

Abstract

[From Summary] Many retirees depend on their former employer for retirement health insurance, either as their sole source of coverage for those under 65 or as a supplement to their Medicare coverage once reaching age 65. However, the future of these benefits is uncertain. With the retirement of the baby boom generation looming ahead, employers offering coverage to their retired workers will face a huge future financial commitment. For this reason, many employers are re-examining their commitment to providing retiree health benefits. Some employers have already reduced or eliminated health insurance coverage for their retirees. Further, among employers who provide health insurance for current retirees, their current workers are less likely to be guaranteed these benefits upon retirement.