By JAMES BELL
Hays Post
In a move in line with other chambers of commerce across the U.S. in the last few years, the Hays Chamber is exploring health insurance options for employees of their members.
"We have been working on the concept of having health insurance for our member investors for quite a while now," said Sarah Wasinger, president and CEO Hays Chamber.
An email was sent Monday to solicit feedback on the program.
"We are definitely wanting feedback," Wasinger said as a committee continues to explore the potential of the program.
So far, estimated costs have been compiled based on what other chambers are offering.
"We are really hoping our members will look at that information, see if those plans are affordable and convenient for them," Wasinger said.
The biggest question so far, she said, is who the provider would be.
"That is still to be decided," Wasinger said. "We are working with a third-party vendor called Heartland Benefits Group. They are going to managing this benefit plan for us."
The group will put together quotes as the process moves forward, but by combining together, she said businesses may be able to offer insurance at a lower cost than if they do so alone.
"So health care, obviously, is a big expense for businesses and one of the best ways we can impact all of our investors who have that need for affordable insurance is to pool our resources together," Wasinger said.
The more in the pool and the higher participation the more likely the insurance cost will be lower, she said.
"More details will be coming," Wasinger offered as feedback comes in and more specific costs are outlined with insurance providers.