An aging population, rising chronic disease prevalence and continued migration of care to ambulatory settings are increasingly shaping demand.

Key drivers of the premium hike, according to insurers, include the rising cost of health services, the expiration of the enhanced premium tax credits, and some federal regulatory changes.

Williamson Health plans to join Ascension Saint Thomas in a transaction valued at nearly $1 billion, becoming one of the latest independent health systems to pursue a larger partner before financial pressures escalate.