06/05/2008
Individual rates to change effective Aug. 1
As you know, each year we evaluate our Individual plans to provide maximum value and help our members achieve optimal health while keeping up with rising medical costs. This year the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) completed an enhanced review of our rate filing for the Individual market. The adjustment that would normally take effect July 1, 2008, for Individual policy holders will now take effect Aug. 1, 2008.
Rates are based on projected claim costs and are a direct reflection of the costs of health care. Claim costs are driven by underlying costs, which include:
- Increasing use of medical services
- Rising prescription drug costs
- An increase in chronic disease
- Aging of the population
- Benefits mandated by the legislature
We understand your clients will be concerned with rate increases, and we hope you can assist them as they look for help with evaluating their options. Tomorrow our intent is to begin an outbound call campaign directed to those members who do not have a broker/agent and are most significantly impacted by the rate increase. Our goal is to answer any questions they may have regarding the rate renewal and offer assistance in reviewing plan options. To further support you, we are mailing a letter to you that will explain in greater detail information about the Individual rate increases that you can share with your clients as well.
Beginning mid June, we will also begin mailing letters to current members, HSA Healthplan members and new members. For our members on a closed HSA-Qualified Catastrophic Plan, we will mail a letter and include a flyer as well.
Effective July 1, 2008, two state-mandated benefits take effect—colorectal cancer screening and the increase of the dependent age limit from 23 to 25. Our member mailing will also include applicable riders as follows:
- DentalOne – dependent age rider
- Conversion – colorectal cancer screening and dependent age riders
- HSA Healthplan – dependent age rider (colorectal cancer screening benefit is currently compliant)
The following rate sheets and corresponding benefit summaries are effective Aug. 1, 2008:
The following products are closed to new members; however, members currently enrolled on a closed product can renew:
Effective July 1, 2008, please begin using the new Application for Individual Coverage.
Asuris Individual plans still provide great value for your clients. We offer a variety of products and deductible options to meet their health care and budget needs. If you have any questions about the rate increases or our Individual plans, please talk to your Asuris Consumer Sales contact.
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