Starke County Commissioners Approve Employee Insurance Switch

Health insurance document

Starke County employees will see a bit of a decrease in health insurance costs next year after a decision made by the county commissioners this week.

Representatives from 1st Source Insurance presented the commissioners with results of negotiations between Anthem and Cigna and the price comparisons. 

Commissioner Kathy Norem pointed out that a switch to Cigna will ensure a significant savings.  The county will experience almost a $245,000 savings, and with short-term disability, a $4,000 savings is expected.  Co-pays and other conditions of dental, vision and general health insurance won’t change.  The bi-weekly percentage contribution will decrease. 

The hospitals will remain the same within the coverage as well as local pharmacies for prescription needs.    

The commissioners did approve the switch from Anthem to Cigna with a unanimous vote.  The coverage begins Jan. 1.