What 2026 Health Coverage Changes Mean for Brownsville Families — and How New Horizon Health Center Can Help

31 Dec 2025

Critical Questions:

Will health insurance premiums increase in 2026?

Yes. Health insurance premiums are expected to rise in 2026 as federal Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies expire at the end of 2025. In areas like Brownsville and Cameron County, increases may be higher than the national average, making coverage less affordable for many families.

What happens if I can’t afford health insurance?

If you can’t afford health insurance, you still have options for care. Community health centers like New Horizon Health Center offer services on a sliding fee scale based on your income and family size, allowing you to receive medical, behavioral, and preventive care at a reduced cost.

What is a sliding fee scale in healthcare?

A sliding fee scale is a program that adjusts the cost of healthcare services based on your income and household size. It helps make care more affordable for patients who are uninsured, underinsured, or experiencing changes in coverage.

Can I still see a doctor without insurance?

Yes. You can still see a doctor without insurance at a community health center. Facilities like New Horizon Health Center provide affordable care regardless of insurance status, ensuring you can access routine checkups, prescriptions, and preventive services.

Why is it important not to delay medical care?

Delaying medical care can lead to more serious health issues and higher costs over time. Early care and preventive services help identify and treat conditions before they worsen, improving long-term health outcomes.

As we look ahead to 2026, many families in Brownsville and Cameron County face important changes in their health insurance coverage. With federal subsidies for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans expiring at the end of 2025, health insurance premiums are expected to rise sharply in our region — higher than the national average, according to a recent KSAT report.

This means that more people may find themselves uninsured or underinsured next year, making it harder to afford doctor visits, prescriptions, or mental health care. Delaying or skipping care due to cost can lead to more serious health problems down the road.

Why Brownsville is Especially Impacted

Cameron County already has an uninsured rate of nearly 27%, significantly above the national average. Many families in our community struggle with the cost of healthcare, and rising premiums will only add to these challenges. It’s important for everyone to know what these changes mean and what options are available to stay healthy.

How New Horizon Health Center is Here for You

At New Horizon Health Center, we believe that healthcare should be affordable and accessible — no matter your insurance status or income level. That’s why we offer a sliding fee scale for medical, behavioral, and preventive services. This means your cost is based on your household income and family size, helping reduce financial barriers to care.

Our sliding fee scale is available for everyone, whether you have insurance, are uninsured, or your coverage changes. We encourage patients to speak with our staff to learn more about how you can qualify.

Don’t Delay Care

If you’re worried about your insurance coverage or costs in 2026, don’t wait to get help. Delaying care can lead to worse health outcomes and higher costs in the future. New Horizon Health Center is committed to providing affordable care so you and your family can stay healthy.

Get in Touch

To learn more about our sliding fee scale and how we can support your healthcare needs, visit our website at www.NewHorizonHC.org or call us at 956-548-7400. We’re here to help.