Harrison County is set to benefit from a strategic decision regarding its health insurance plan, as the Commissioners Court approved an early renewal with reinsurer Symmetra during their recent meeting on November 5, 2024. This proactive move is expected to mitigate potential financial risks associated with catastrophic claims in the upcoming year.

The early renewal, a first for Harrison County, was prompted by Symmetra's assessment of the county's claims data, which indicated a favorable outlook. By committing to this renewal, the county secures a modest 2.46% increase in fixed costs, significantly lower than the anticipated double-digit increases faced by many neighboring jurisdictions. This translates to an approximate $20,000 increase in fixed costs for the 2025 plan year, with $8,000 allocated to enhancing the county's gene therapy program.

The gene therapy program, which was implemented last year, has proven crucial in managing the financial impact of high-cost medications. The reinsurer will now cover 15 gene therapy drugs, up from five, for a monthly fee of $4.75 per employee. This increase is a strategic investment, as these therapies can cost upwards of $350,000 and pose a significant risk to the county's health plan.

The decision to expand the gene therapy coverage is expected to provide substantial protection against unforeseen medical expenses, ensuring that employees and their dependents have access to necessary treatments without burdening the county's financial resources. As the county moves forward, this early renewal and expanded coverage reflect a commitment to safeguarding both the health of its employees and the fiscal health of its insurance plan.