Health insurance rates will rise sharply July 1Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan will again increase
rates significantly on its health insurance plans, including those offered
by MRA. Most MRA health plan participants will see double-digit
rate increases averaging approximately 20 percent. The new rates go into
effect July 1. “This latest round of rate hikes underscores the
need for wide-ranging reform in Michigan’s health insurance system,”
said James P. Hallan, MRA president and chief operating officer. “Fortunately,
the legislature is gearing up to tackle this tough problem. MRA will strongly
advocate a reform proposal that addresses the needs of our membership,
especially small businesses, which have been hurt the worst by rising
costs.” Some MRA members may be able to adjust their coverage
to reduce costs, said Sue Stroup, MRA customer service manager. Because
of a new Blue Cross policy this year, members who participate in a plan
that is no longer offered will not be able to make changes in coverage
unless they move to a current health plan. MRA’s annual open enrollment period in June will
allow health insurance participants to add employees or dependents who
did not join the program when originally eligible. Open enrollment also provides an opportunity for groups
and individuals to join MRA’s dental, life and disability insurance
plans or make changes in coverage. Open enrollment is the only time during the year when
members can join MRA’s self-funded dental insurance program, administered
by Delta Dental Plan of Michigan. The two dental plans are open to businesses
with two or more people participating. Dental subscribers will see a modest
rate increase of 5 percent this year. Current dental participants can add employees or dependents
during this period or switch between MRA’s two coverage options.
MRA’s life and disability insurance programs are
open for new groups, employees and dependents during open enrollment.
Participants can also change their life insurance coverage amounts. To join any of MRA’s insurance programs, add employees and dependents or adjust coverage during open enrollment, call MRA Customer Service at 800.366.3699 or e-mail Sue Stroup, MRA Manager of Customer Service, at sstroup@retailers.com. |