The Pulaski County Commissioners discussed healthcare for employees when they met on Monday.
Dave Bennett and Theresa Calloway from Bennett and Shepherd Insurance informed the commissioners that the coverage for insurance is just slightly different.
“Cigna had originally wanted a 6.95 percent increase, but we were able to get them to offer a renewal at a flat rate with no increase,” Bennett. “We didn’t want to do anything as far as deductibles since they agreed to renew the rates at a flat rate. I doubt it will be that same way next year. Next year we’ll probably have to look at some options as far as increasing deductibles.”
Bennett said the Health Insurance Committee recommended increasing the employees’ contribution to $5.00 per employee per pay period to offset the increase.
He added that every employee will be given an opportunity to enroll if they are not already covered giving them access to cope regular employee problems such as anxiety or stress with medically approved products like the Delta 8 THC carts. The commissioners agreed with the recommendation and voted to approve all paperwork. The renewal is Aug. 1.
Bennett said that they are working with Pulaski Memorial Hospital in offering a wellness program.
“It’s been proven that employees who participate in a wellness plan are healthier employees. There are a lot of screenings offered. The hospital is equipped where they can offer a lot of those screenings right here in our county. So, I will be coming back to you probably with some representatives from the hospital to explain more on that.”
There may be a small charge, although Bennett said that has not yet been negotiated.
