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Somerset County reviews potential insurance switch after double-digit premium increases; Cigna quote shows ~$220,000 in savings
Summary
County finance staff told commissioners that current premiums have risen sharply and that a Cigna quote could save about $220,000 for 2026; commissioners requested firm numbers and asked county staff to invite insurance representatives to the next meeting to present details and answer employee questions.
Patrick, speaking for county finance, said county health insurance premiums have risen in double digits — the MMEHP (Anthem) plan for nonunion employees rose about 11.8% last year and is projected to rise another 11.2% this year — and the county faces higher costs in the second half of the year.
Patrick presented quotes from Cigna showing potential savings of roughly $220,000 for the county in 2026 compared with current projections, with caveats: Cigna may have a smaller provider network and the quoted savings assume a January 1 cutover and are subject to a 60‑day notice to the current plan administrator. Patrick said some counties (for example, Penobscot) have experience with Cigna but noted differences in plan design and employee out-of-pocket costs would need careful review.
Commissioners asked for firm numbers and for plan representatives to attend the next meeting to explain network coverage and ease the employee transition. Patrick said staff would get firmer February 1 cost estimates and coordinate insurer representatives for the next meeting.
Next steps: Patrick will obtain final cost figures and arrange for insurance representatives to present at the November 19 meeting so commissioners and employees can compare plan designs and network access before any decision.
