County employee health insurance and Health Choice rate increase
Summary
The county's Health Choice premiums jumped about 18-19%, with higher out-of-pocket costs. The board is getting quotes from three other carriers and weighing a move to self-insurance, with a presentation to come later. No decision yet — but this affects every county employee's coverage and the county budget.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 2
- Last 30 days
- 0
Discussed at 1 meeting in the last 60 days; most recently Sep 14, 2026.
Impact analysis
Premiums up nearly 19% could mean a major hit to the county's benefits budget; switching plans five years ago, one member said, would have saved $2 million.
County employees and their families if a better or cheaper plan is found.
Employees could face higher costs or coverage changes if the board shifts plans without careful design.
Mentions & discussions (2)
Board of County Commissioners - Sep 14, 2026
Health Choice's 2027 rates jumped sharply while coverage is shrinking, and the county is weighing a move to self-insurance or Blue Cross Blue Shield with HUB International as broker. The board held off on naming a broker until all three commissioners meet with the firm.
Budget Board - Aug 24, 2026
The county's Health Choice premiums jumped about 18-19%, with higher out-of-pocket costs. The board is getting quotes from three other carriers and weighing a move to self-insurance, with a presentation to come later. No decision yet — but this affects every county employee's coverage and the county budget.
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