Commissioners authorize move to Gravy (Aetna network) for 2026 employee health plan

The Dickinson County Commission voted Oct. 30 to authorize staff to pursue a 2026 employee health plan with Gravy, a carrier that uses the Aetna provider network, after a work-study session where the county's benefits broker laid out plan designs and cost comparisons.

Courtney, a representative from the county's benefits broker, told department heads and elected officials that the broader market has seen "30 to 60%" premium increases and that Gravy's offerings include four plan options, three that mirror the county's current design and a so-called comfort-care plan that eliminates most deductibles for routine and preventive services. "So we just wanna go over the options for the 2026 benefits," Courtney said during the presentation.

The comfort-care plan described by the broker pays 100% for many preventive services, primary-care and specialist visits, urgent care, physical therapy, virtual services and many routine diagnostics; it replaces a deductible with co-pay structures and higher out-of-pocket maximums. The broker also noted Gravy uses the Aetna provider network and CVS Health as its pharmacy manager, while local pharmacies such as Auburn…