New Jersey Voters Show Confidence but Concern in Health Insurance Options

A recent Rutgers-Eagleton Poll in collaboration with the National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals New Jersey Chapter (NABIP-NJ) highlights the level of confidence New Jersey residents have in understanding their health insurance plans. The majority of insured voters (84%) report being confident about their chosen plans, while 71% feel they understand the various health insurance options available. However, younger voters and those with less education exhibit lower confidence levels in navigating insurance plans. The poll underscores ongoing concerns regarding the complexity and costs associated with health insurance in New Jersey. Despite high confidence in plan comprehension, many voters remain apprehensive about affordability and the influence of state government regulations on insurance offerings. Approximately 72% of voters express concern over Trenton's role in shaping policy and regulatory frameworks within the state's private insurance marketplace. Demographic insights reveal that younger individuals (ages 18-34) express less confidence and concern about government intervention compared to older voters. Those enrolled in employer-sponsored plans report less confidence in understanding insurance options than beneficiaries of Medicare or Medicaid. Education level also impacts confidence levels, with more educated voters showing greater understanding. Cost considerations play a significant role in healthcare decision-making among New Jersey residents. About half of the voters give substantial consideration to healthcare costs when choosing services, with majorities across demographics factoring costs into their healthcare choices. Women, nonwhite voters, and households with annual incomes under $100,000 are more likely to weigh costs heavily in their decisions. Meanwhile, political affiliation influences cost considerations, with Republicans less likely to prioritize costs compared to Democrats and independents. This data, collected from 795 registered voters through live calls and texts in October 2025, offers valuable insights for insurers and healthcare providers aiming to improve communication and address affordability concerns within New Jersey’s health insurance market. Understanding these perceptions can inform strategies to enhance plan design, regulatory compliance, and consumer education efforts in the state.