The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, announces new health insurance option for 2025

The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, is excited to announce a new health insurance offering, Chamber Solutions, for its member businesses starting in 2025.

This innovative plan, provided in partnership with Aetna and managed by Gallagher Benefit Services, offers a level-funded solution tailored to Kansas businesses' diverse needs.

Chamber Solutions replaces the Chamber Blue plan with Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), which will end on December 31, 2024, due to a Department of Justice ruling effective July 1, 2024.

Member businesses currently enrolled in the Chamber Blue plan will maintain coverage through the end of the year, ensuring a smooth transition.

The Chamber has been actively preparing for this change, reaching out to groups enrolled in the Chamber Blue plan to collect census reports for preliminary underwriting by Aetna.

 

How Chamber Solutions Works

Chamber Solutions is a level-funded product that combines the financial predictability of fixed monthly payments with the benefits of stop-loss protection.

This unique approach allows businesses to share in any claims funding surplus, making it an attractive and cost-effective option for eligible members.

Chamber Solutions offers custom underwriting for each group, unlike traditional health insurance plans.

While this personalized approach may exclude some businesses due to medical history or high-risk profiles, it ensures a tailored plan that meets the specific needs of qualified groups.

 

Key features include:

• Eligibility: Groups with 2-100 employees can qualify. LLCs without employees do not qualify.
• Plan Options: Businesses can choose from eight plan designs and offer up to four plans to their employees.
• Savings: Members receive a 2% discount on monthly premiums, an exclusive benefit not available with standard Aetna plans.
• Flexibility: Groups currently on an Aetna plan can transition seamlessly into Chamber Solutions. Enrollment is open year-round, allowing businesses to join without waiting for a traditional open enrollment period.
• Broad Network Access: Plans include Aetna’s Choice POSII Open Access network, two statewide local networks, and value-added member programs.

 

Simplified Administration

To participate, businesses must complete a census form and upload it through a secure portal managed by Gallagher Benefit Services.

This streamlined process ensures that businesses receive a competitive and individualized pricing proposal.

Collaboration with Local Brokers

Chamber Solutions expands accessibility by allowing local brokers to sell the plan, a significant departure from the exclusive arrangement of the Chamber Blue plan with BCBS.

For more information, brokers interested in offering Chamber Solutions can contact Tim Shrout, Employee Benefits Consultant with Gallagher Benefit Services.

 

Contact:

Tim Shrout
Gallagher Benefit Services, Inc.
Phone: (816) 507-3249
Email: tim_shrout@ajg.com

 

Chamber Membership Requirement

Participation in Chamber Solutions is exclusive to The Chamber's member businesses in Hays, Kansas.

This ensures the plan supports and strengthens the local business community while providing a competitive edge for Chamber membership.

 

Why Chamber Solutions?

“The Chamber is committed to helping our members navigate the complexities of health insurance while providing valuable resources to ensure their success,” said Sarah Wasinger, President and CEO of The Chamber in Hays, Kansas. “Chamber Solutions represents a forward-thinking solution that balances affordability with comprehensive coverage, empowering our local businesses to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.”

 

Additional Benefits

In addition to medical coverage, businesses can request dental, vision, life, and disability coverage options to meet their employees’ needs further.

With the flexibility to select up to four plan options for employees, Chamber Solutions is designed to offer choice and adaptability.

 

Next Steps

Member businesses are encouraged to complete the required census as soon as possible to determine eligibility and receive preliminary underwriting results.

The Chamber is confident that Chamber Solutions will provide its members with a valuable and sustainable health insurance option in 2025 and beyond.