PEHP announces 5.28% increase in medical plan rates amid high healthcare costs

During the Daggett County Commission meeting on November 12, 2024, a significant discussion centered around the upcoming benefits renewals for county employees. The meeting highlighted the challenges faced by employers due to rising healthcare costs, with medical trends reported to be increasing between 9% and 12%. This trend has resulted in many organizations experiencing double-digit increases in their healthcare expenses.

Despite the broader trend, Daggett County's renewal rates showed some positive news. The county's medical plan with PEHP will see a modest increase of 5.28%, which is lower than initially anticipated. Additionally, the dental plan will experience a slight increase of 0.11%, translating to an annual cost increase of approximately $29. Fortunately, other insurance lines, including vision and life insurance, will maintain their current rates.

The meeting also addressed employee satisfaction with existing coverage. Feedback from employees indicated a general sense of contentment, with no significant complaints reported. This positive sentiment suggests that the current carriers are meeting the needs of the county's workforce.

As the commission moves forward with these renewals, the focus will remain on managing costs while ensuring that employees continue to receive quality benefits. The discussions from this meeting underscore the importance of strategic planning in navigating the complexities of healthcare costs and employee satisfaction in Daggett County.