Like many things in life—mortgages, car leases or cell phones—after some time, you have to renew your contract. The same holds true for our group benefits plan. A benefits plan renewal typically occurs annually. This year, our renewal date has moved ahead to January 1, to coincide with the calendar year and simplify claims submission. As you will see below, we will be in touch with more information in the coming weeks. Stay tuned, but feel free to reach out should you have questions or concerns.
Here’s how the process works:
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THE INSURER (BENEVA) PROPOSES A NEW RATE BASED ON:
- AOMBT's claims experience (cost of actual claims by group members. Short term disability, extended health care, and dental care are all experience rated)
- The impact of inflation
- The cost of new medicines
- AOMBT's demographic makeup
- Beneva's practice re: reserve funds (how much needs to be set aside in case of unexpected costs)
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AOMBT BENEFITS CONSULTANT (WILLIS TOWERS WATSON) NEGOTIATES THE RATE AND ENSURES:
- The proposal aligns with AOMBT plan philosophy and needs of our diverse members
- It is sustainable for the future
- It is a reasonable rate change for members
- It aligns with AOMBT claims experience
- Negotiations on behalf of AOMBT members have been thorough
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AOMBT REVIEWS THE PROPOSAL AND CONSIDERS:
- If modifications need to be made to the proposed plan
- If it would be beneficial to go to market for a different provider (usually a process done every 5-7 years)
- If we are comfortable accepting the rates as presented by the consultant
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TRUSTEES REVIEW THE PROPOSAL AND ASK:
- Is the plan reasonable in context of the claims experience, current climate, and consultant's reasons for accepting the proposed renewal?
- Do we accept or decline? (If the proposal is declined, the insurer is asked to present alternative options for consideration. Because of the negotiation that occurs in Step 2, the proposal is typically acceptable).
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MEMBERS
- Information about changes to the plan and impact on premiums is shared with members by AOMBT. The rate renewal takes place on January 1, 2025, and midwives will see changes to premiums in the February billing month.
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