In a recent borough council meeting, officials discussed the results of a Request for Proposal (RFP) for health insurance, revealing significant potential savings for the municipality. The council received quotes from Benecon, which collaborates with the Pennsylvania Municipal Insurance Cooperative (PIMIC), the only provider to submit proposals after extending the RFP deadline to October 7.

The current health insurance plan through UnitedHealthcare was compared with two alternative options: Independence Blue Cross and Highmark Blue Shield. The analysis indicated that switching to Highmark could save the borough over $42,000 annually, while Independence Blue Cross would offer a more modest reduction of approximately $9,270. Additionally, Highmark would provide a substantial wellness credit of $63,100, along with a one-time implementation credit of $12,600 for wellness programs.

The council emphasized the importance of maintaining comprehensive coverage, particularly for female employees, as the current plan lost OBGYN coverage earlier this year. The proposed Highmark plan would restore this benefit, addressing concerns raised by union representatives and employees.

Staff recommended transitioning from UnitedHealthcare to Highmark Blue Shield, citing the plan's competitive pricing and comprehensive coverage. The council confirmed that all necessary benefits would be maintained under the new plan, ensuring an \"apples to apples\" comparison with the existing coverage.

The meeting concluded with a focus on enhancing employee wellness through upcoming health events funded by the wellness credits, which aim to promote healthy living among borough employees. The council's decision is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, with the goal of implementing the new plan by January 1.