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County adds Surest co-pay option to 2027 CIS coverage request
Summary
Gilliam County approved adding the Surest co-pay insurance option to its 2027 CIS Request for Coverage; staff said the option is cost-neutral or slightly favorable and retains existing high-deductible coverage for employees.
Gilliam County Court voted July 1 to add a Surest co-pay option to the county's 2027 CIS Request for Coverage (RFC), offering employees an alternative to the current high-deductible Regence plan. Benefits staff presented a cost comparison showing that although Surest premiums are higher, employer contributions toward deductibles under the high-deductible plan make the overall annual employer cost roughly neutral or slightly lower for employees who select Surest.
Staff emphasized the county is not removing existing plans; the Surest option would be an additional choice for employees. They also noted provider-network considerations: OHSU is currently guaranteed in the Regence network through Dec. 31, 2026, and employees should check provider access at open enrollment. Court members asked procedural questions and the motion to add Surest to the 2027 RFC was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote.
The county will include the Surest co-pay option in the materials for open enrollment and host an in-person presentation for employees before selections are due.
