[Hidden-tech] 25% Hike for MA Small Business Health Insurance Rates

[Alexander Simon]

Christine - We've used Fallon at our agency for just over a year. Pretty much the best rate we could find and the network is pretty good. They're growing quite a bit in western MA and have fairly great customer service for small businesses. Recommended.

Alexander Simon
LogicTrail

On Aug 25, 2010, at 1:58 PM, "Christine Pilch" <Christine at GrowMyCo.com> wrote:

>   ** Be sure to fill out the survey/skills inventory in the member's area.
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> Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but your small business health insurance rates are going up about 25%, effective September 1 for many. I received my letter from Blue Cross this morning, and yours is certainly coming soon.
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> By means of background. A few months ago the MA Division of Insurance froze rates at 2009 levels while they investigated unfair increases in premiums that health insurers were forcing on their customers.  “Responding directly to concerns raised by the small business community, Governor Deval Patrick directed the Division of Insurance to investigate potential solutions to escalating premiums. The Division will hold hearings to examine small business premium increases, focusing specifically on work insurers are currently doing to reduce costs and future steps that may be necessary to eliminate the substantial increases impacting the small-group market.” This is from the Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation page on the Commonwealth’s website: http://tinyurl.com/5st2p9
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> Many of us small business owners rejoiced, believing that we finally had an advocate. I had received a 25% quoted increase in my premium from Blue Cross in April, and the DOI freeze forced Blue Cross to hold my 2009 rate, adjusted to my increased age, effective in May.
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> Unfortunately, ultimately the DOI did little on our behalf. My rates have increased annually an average of 17% since 2007, and today’s letter represents a 25% hike for my premium.
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> So, I’m looking for affordable options to Blue Cross. Health New England won’t insure the self employed, and the only other company I’ve found is Fallon. What company are you using for your health insurance coverage? Ideas?
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> Thanks for any guidance you can offer.
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> Best regards,
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> - Christine Pilch
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> Miracle Growth for your Company
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> Grow My Company
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> Christine at GrowMyCo.com
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