SIOUX CITY – Many Woodbury County employees are worried about changes to their health insurance plan. County Board Chair Dan Bittinger shared that about 75% of the more than 400 workers use the insurance offered by the county.
For years, the county’s health plan has been running a deficit. Last year, employees contributed $6.7 million, but the claims paid out reached $8 million. “We need to make changes for a sustainable plan,” Bittinger stated.
The upcoming policy changes primarily affect employees (excluding sheriff’s deputies, who are union-represented).
Here’s a quick summary of the proposed adjustments:
– For Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans:
– Individual deductibles will increase from $250 to $1,000.
– Family deductibles will rise from $500 to $2,000.
– Out-of-pocket maximums will climb to $3,000 for individuals and $6,000 for families.
– For Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans:
– Individual deductibles will go from $250 to $500.
– Family deductibles will increase from $500 to $1,000.
– Out-of-pocket maximums will adjust to $1,500 for individuals and $3,000 for families.
Both plans will see co-insurance rates double from 10% to 20% after the deductible is met for various services, including diagnostic tests and imaging.
At a recent meeting, over a dozen employees voiced their concerns. Many emphasized the importance of the benefits package for keeping and attracting talent. While some acknowledged the need to address rising healthcare costs, they expressed shock at the steep rate increases.
One employee said, “I get that costs have risen, but why has our out-of-pocket expense tripled?” Another, Corey Davis, president of Communications Workers of America Local 7103, pointed out, “This is essentially taxing the workers and nullifying any wage increases they might have received.”
The board decided to delay any decisions until a future meeting. “Everything is on the table,” Bittinger said. “Employees have asked for other options, like Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and different deductible structures.”
The deadline to finalize any changes is December 10. This ensures that employees receive their updated insurance cards before the new year.
In recent surveys, health insurance costs have been a top concern among employees across various sectors. Nationwide, healthcare premiums have increased by an average of 3.6% this year according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. These changes in Woodbury County reflect a wider trend, where employers grapple with rising costs while trying to maintain competitive benefits.
As discussions continue, employees hope the county can find a balance that meets both budget needs and their healthcare requirements.
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