The Delaware Department of Insurance has launched a new public comment section on its website focused on the requested rate increase by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Delaware.

The health care provider, the largest in Delaware, requested an increase of 33.6 percent for insurance plans offered under the Affordable Care Act Exchange. The department is currently conducting an independent "actuarial review" of the hike. Delaware law requires that the Insurance Commissioner consider these findings as well as public comments before providing approval.

“Highmark’s proposed rate increase is frustrating for many hardworking Delawareans who receive their health insurance through the “Obamacare” Exchange," Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro said in a statement. "It is only fair that the consumers who face this increase have their concerns heard."

Based on last year's numbers, about 27,000 consumers could be affected by the rate increase.

"It will provide consumers an important opportunity to give input into the rate determination process and on the proposed request pending before the Department," Navarro said. "Consumer comments will aid the Department in arriving at the best possible decision.”

Here is the link to the comment page: http://insurance.delaware.gov/public-comment/