Treasurer outlines insurance trust changes and GLP-1 coverage debate
Summary
Paula Harrison said a mid-year premium increase was recommended to keep the Hampshire County Group Insurance Trust solvent, and she reported the trust is reviewing coverage of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss; changes will affect employees though the town budget impact should be limited.
Treasurer/Collector Paula Harrison updated the board on actions by the Hampshire County Group Insurance Trust that affect Colrain employees. Harrison said the trust recommended a mid-year increase in premiums to preserve the plan's viability following a recent large claim and ongoing use of GLP-1 medications for weight loss. She said the trust is considering removing coverage for GLP-1s for weight loss effective Oct. 1, 2025, and that the trust committee is exploring addition of other plan options and small plan adjustments.
Harrison said the premium increase should not materially affect the town's budgeted positions — the town budgeted two full-family plans and an additional change in health-insurance structure — but acknowledged the change would affect employees who use the plan. Diana Parsons said Harrison will present options to the board in the future for possible plan changes.
No formal vote was taken; the discussion will continue as the trust finalizes plan recommendations.
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