Hub Northwest outlines strategic health plan support for Franklin County employees

The Franklin County Board of County Commissioners held a regular meeting on July 23, 2025, focusing on health benefits and strategic planning for county employees. The meeting featured a presentation from HUB Northwest, a major broker in the region, detailing their support services and strategies for managing employee health benefits.

A key discussion point was the current health plan's performance, which revealed a concerning loss ratio of 110% for the ongoing plan year. This indicates that the county has paid out more in claims than it has collected in premiums, prompting discussions about potential renewal rates that could rise by 12 to 13%. The HUB team emphasized the importance of negotiating these rates effectively, as they have successfully managed to keep renewal increases lower than industry averages in the past.

The presentation also highlighted the need for a tailored approach to employee benefits, taking into account the diverse needs of the county's workforce. The HUB team discussed their methodology for assessing employee demographics and life stages, which is crucial for developing a benefits plan that meets the varying needs of employees at different points in their careers.

Additionally, the team introduced the concept of a wellness platform aimed at encouraging preventive health visits among employees, which they believe will improve overall health outcomes and reduce long-term costs. They noted that many employees are not utilizing preventive care, which could lead to higher claims in the future.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing discussions about the county's health benefits strategy, including potential shifts towards self-funding and the exploration of new vendors to better serve the county's needs. The HUB team reassured the commissioners of their dedication to providing comprehensive support and resources to ensure the county's health plan remains sustainable and effective.