The cost for businesses to provide health insurance is increasing year over year. This is never more evident than when it comes time to renew contracts. As a benefit of your membership with Greater Spokane Incorporated, we provide an insurance solution for our small businesses: the Business Health Trust.
BHT provides a one-stop shop for small employers seeking to receive some benefits available to large companies, at their large group price rate. Among the benefits available, includes tools and resources to help with COBRA administration. BHT takes that item off employers’ plate, at no cost. With a specific focus on member service, BHT puts a heavy emphasis on customer support in order to reduce phone times.
Created about 10 years ago, BHT brings insurance options to small businesses at a competitive price. With a full suite of benefits in their catalogue, the organization can provide coverage across a number of health-related items. In addition to health insurance, the services provided by BHT include: dental, vision, life insurance, and disability. The health trust has contracts with numerous carriers throughout Washington, including Premera Blue Cross, Delta Dental of Washington, VSP, LifeMap and Wellspring.
Earlier this year, Premera Blue Cross’ inclusion of Providence Health Care in their network was in question until contract negotiations resolved the issue. Of the two networks used by Premera, BHT has access to their larger network, encompassing of all state providers in Washington.
As the open enrollment season gets into full swing, turn to your membership with GSI. BHT is an option worth researching, given its cost competitive options that provide the same benefits as large organizations.
For more information, contact your insurance professional or the Business Health Trust program manager Nathan Edmondson at 206-731-1316. If you would like the name of a health insurance broker that can give you a bid through the Business Health Trust, contact Heather Hamlin at 509-321-3624.
