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County moves toward loss‑sensitive insurance structure and hires third‑party claims administrator
Summary
After market review, Bernalillo County authorized the county manager to pursue loss‑sensitive/self‑insured insurance coverage, purchase major lines from new providers and award an RFP for a third‑party claims administrator with implementation set to begin Jan. 1; commissioners approved the move 5‑0.
Bernalillo County staff recommended — and the Board of County Commissioners approved — a shift from the county’s longstanding participation in the New Mexico Counties Insurance Authority toward a loss‑sensitive/self‑insured structure with new coverage providers and a county‑run third‑party claims administration model.
County Manager Cindy Chavez said the county informed the pooled insurer in April of its market review; New Mexico Counties responded with proposed rule changes and said Bernalillo’s size complicates pooled coverage. Chavez, consultant Scott Gates and staff described market offerings and recommended authorizing the manager to purchase major policy lines, award an RFP for a third‑party administrator (TPA) to handle claims and execute associated professional services agreements to implement the transition.
Commissioners asked about timeline and returnability to the pool; Chavez said the changes to the pool’s processes would make rejoining difficult and that the county intends to be ready to begin with new partners on Jan. 1. The motion to proceed and authorize the county manager carried on a 5‑0 vote.
