Rising medical costs are a challenge facing everyone -- from hospitals and physicians to health plans, employers and consumers. Until recently, many of us have been largely shielded from cost increases, but that is changing. By understanding what factors are contributing to rising costs, and learning some basics about health insurance and how our health plans work, we can all play a role in keeping health care affordable.

How Health Insurance Works
Find out more about how health insurance works -- how your premiums are calculated, how your employer works with your health insurance company, and how to make the most of your health plan.

Why Are Health Care Costs Rising?
Health care costs are increasing due to many factors. Understand more about how much things actually cost, and how much you pay compared to what your employer pays for health insurance.