NukeWorker Forum

News and Discussions => Site News => Topic started by: Rennhack on Jun 18, 2005, 04:23

Title: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Rennhack on Jun 18, 2005, 04:23
I have been approached by MANY people, suggesting that I offer group insurance for nuclear workers.  In recent months, the request has come more frequently from more sources.  I believe that we can work out a deal where all nuclear workers can get a group rate as NukeWorker members.  This rate should be better than what most companies can offer.  In fact, I'm proposing that while you are working, your company take the money they would normally pay towards your insurance, and send it to us to cover your plan (pre tax).  Then, when you get laid off, you won't have to worry about cobra, and setting up new insurance.  And you won't have to worry about the different plans from different companies.

I'll get some rates for different levels of coverage as well.  Some people only want major medical with a large deductible; others want full coverage with a small deductible.  We will offer several options.

What does everyone think?  I know less than nothing about insurance, but I am willing to make this happen, to help everyone out.  How many people are interested in this?
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: jwhabacker on Jun 18, 2005, 08:14
Never really thought about it but, this might be a very good and benifical idea.  Thanks for considering it.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Jules on Jun 18, 2005, 08:54
I think it would be great if you could do something like that for everyone. It is so hard to find and keep reasonable health insurance in this business. Thank you for always thinking of ways to help us.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: makua13 on Jun 18, 2005, 09:01
This insurance issue is a major concern to my age group of RP (>50) I wish to work fewer outages and the Cobra costs are enormous.  The other part of this is once in an insurance program, such as BCBS from Bartlett, that also locks a worker into that Contract Co.  If we were able to have our own insurance it would lift a large burden and give us more career options and flexability.  Just make sure this is a good company that is recognized world over.  With Techs. living in the Phillipines, Bahamas, France, and even Switzerland, it must be a world player in the insurance market.  All that said my wife and I are anxious to climb aboard this insurance train.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Everett Chretien, STS on Jun 18, 2005, 09:40
Sounds like a wonderful solution to the COBRA problem.;D    Everytime your laid off, your offered the "Benefit" of COBRA at the affordable rate of most of your unemplyment check. :-\  It would relieve some of the stress over how to maintain appropriate health care between assignments.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: randydp on Jun 18, 2005, 10:41
Dang good Idea! I bet all the companys would like a chance to be rid of the paperwork dealing with insurance for the temporary workers. I would think there would be many ins. companys  that would bid on such a potential deal.  Get us a great one.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: spw on Jun 18, 2005, 11:17
I think this would be great for a lot of us.  Great Idea!  Please keep us posted on the progress.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: wglewallen on Jun 18, 2005, 11:34
Yes, I am very much interested--working with some of the other companies, if you get the insurance with them usually have have a 90 day grace period by that time the outage is over with . Then you have to pay high rates that is outrageous (COBRA). That is if you want to be covered.   
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: blu_lite on Jun 19, 2005, 12:04
I think it's a terrific idea.  I'd love to get into a group that can give me better rates and probably better coverage than I have now.  I saw my health insurance go up $50/mo at the first anniversary date and the same again 6 months later.  Second anniversary is approaching fast.  There is no end in sight.  It's also important to have insurance that travels where you do, whether you travel for work or change your residence.  Do you know that many plans are local or regional, and that if you move out of the area you need to reapply?  If you have developed a chronic condition, you may be unable to get insurance at any price.

That said, my 2-person operation once had insurance for my secretary through a professional organization.  They ultimately got out of that business because it became a tremendous hassle.  Because she had health problems, the only individual policy we could find after that cost $750/mo (it's complicated, but a 2-person company in Tennessee must have both people insured in order to get a "group" rate--then that rate is based on the health status of the two individuals who form the group--in this case I was insured under my husband's policy). At any rate, one of the problems is that such professional groups tend to accumulate the less healthy individuals, which ultimately drive the premium costs up a lot.  If you have a large population of 40- and 50-yr olds, the 20- and 30-yr olds are going to find individual policies much cheaper, so won't tend to join the group. The young healthy folks are the ones you need to keep everyone's rate down.  On the other hand, the avoidance of paying for COBRA becomes compelling after the first time one is laid off.

How are you going to limit the group membership?  I don't do field nuke work--all of my work is in the office (I'm not even badged).  Will you set up a membership organization and charge dues?  Will you have underwriting requirements that would prevent high-risk individuals from joining the group?

I encourage you to look into the possiblities, but I suspect you will find it more challenging than you expect.  Do keep us informed about what you come up with.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: gatornorm1958 on Jun 19, 2005, 12:50
Great idea, not sure how affordable we can get it but anything is worth trying so we can continue coverage while unemployed. As far as getting coverage where ever we happen to be working that should not be too difficult. Most companies are at least nationwide. I am also a travelling nurse and most of those travel companies have insurance that is valid across the country. What happens in different countries may be an entirely different story and you may run into some snags an that end. Wish the best to everyone.

Norm
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: RAD-GHOST on Jun 19, 2005, 06:24
This is a Great Idea X 1E+10! 

I don't mean to interject any negativeness on the Topic, but I think we would be better served by keeping it as simple as possible.  National coverage vs. International coverage!  I'm not familiar with the mechanics of the insurance industry, but Internation sounds a little pricey to me. TRUE, their are a number of techs who live outside of this country, but most of those countries have some sort of Social Medical Program.  The mear mention of an agenda, outside of the US, may limit the barganing power Mike is trying to establish.

Mike, if you need some help on the project, drop me an IM!

RG 
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: diliigaf on Jun 19, 2005, 07:05
 8)

                           Mike,
               I think that is a great idea... I'm with Radghost as far as keeping it simple and keeping the the cost down.
               If you chose to live in foreign countries so be it, let that country help you out...Those of us state side should not have to incur the cost, (if there is a difference in the expense.)  I hope you have success in finding this, it's long over due...
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: DrBillCorcoran on Jun 19, 2005, 10:05
We are a two-person company. The latest challenge was when The Hartford told us that they would not renew our commercial/general liability insurance. We had been with them since 1993 with zero claims.

Our (former) agent put in a lot of effort, but could not find an insurance company that would insure us for less than $MAJORBUCKS!!

We also tried USAA (They go through The Hartford.), ASSE, ASQ, etc. No joy! All companies said that they did not like nuclear work. One specifically said that they would not insure any company that worked for the Yucca Mountain Project. Another singled out a different client as a problem.

Eventually we went through a colleague's agent and were able to locate less coverage than we had at three times the price we were paying The Hartford.

We now have coverage through June 30, 2006.

I would love to hear from someone with a small nuclear "C corporation" who has some insurance ideas.

Also, perhaps Nukeworker could include commercial/general liability in their insurance discussions.

Happy Fathers' Day to the nuke fathers out there.

Bill Corcoran
860-285-8779
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Rennhack on Jun 19, 2005, 10:13
I don't think international insurance is feasible, but we are looking at all options.

Please continue to share your thoughts; including what you think is important and potential pitfalls.  As I said, I know nothing about insurance, but I am willing to help everyone on this matter.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Rennhack on Jun 19, 2005, 10:15
Bill, you are an "Environmental" company, not a "Nuclear" company.  Thats the trick.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: saxman on Jun 19, 2005, 10:47
I personally think this is a great idea! It would be a SUPER convenience and would allow us to have year round insurance without the rip-off of cobra. Thanks for thinking of your fellow nukeworkers!!!
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: barnoandkato on Jun 19, 2005, 11:31
This is a fantastic idea.  I would jump on this in a heart beat if the rates are reasonable.  My other half is also a tech and I know he would go for it also.  It is awful when we are laid off that we don't have insurance.  Hope you are successfull in finding a good policy. 
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: maggie352000 on Jun 19, 2005, 12:00
I would be interested. I can't afford the Cobra. So I do without. Make it happen.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Len on Jun 19, 2005, 12:07
Great Idea! I am fortunate in that my better half works for Wally-World and I am covered under her policy. They do change providers frequently and currently the policy is not as good as last year. John Deere is in the insurance business now, and the two times I had coverage with them it was reasonable and very good. This is not a small undertaking, and I wish you well with it. Keep up the great work! Len
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: alt1 on Jun 19, 2005, 12:20
Hey all!
I've been on both sides of the issue, and I can say for a fact that it is tough and expensive to get good health insurance.
If I remember correctly the law changed recently such that small companies band together and negotiate the same rates as large companies. If we pool premiums we can be a self administered program. Depends upon how many people we sign up. Also, would  this include family coverage as well? I could always get coverage for myself, but not my wife. Because my wife has multiple sclerosis, and every other osis there is in the medical dictionary individual policies are out of the question unless you pay for "special policies", which are very high dollar! Like everyone has been saying this can get real complicated real fast!
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Dan_E. on Jun 19, 2005, 05:21
You might be able to couple a 401K plan with the insurance. Possibilities could include a "cafe plan" allowing individuals to modify the plan to suit their individual needs: deductibles, catastrophic only, etc. and the 401K does not need to be a level weekly/monthly amount. People could stuff it when working and take a break when not. Have you already contacted multiple agents for offers?

Sorry, I did not proofread this post, "401K does  not  need to be a level ..."
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: makua13 on Jun 19, 2005, 07:34
When you decide to search insurance companies, one thought...Bartlett and Numanco are both using Blue Cross Blue Shield..if you could use same company than the (already) insured workers could just transfer and would not have to go through the 240 days of no coverage with a new provider.  But whichever company, ask if they will accept a letter of coverage and thereby an immediate status of full coverage.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Rennhack on Jun 19, 2005, 09:46
You might be able to couple a 401K plan with the insurance. Possibilities could include a "cafe plan" allowing individuals to modify the plan to suit their individual needs: deductibles, catastrophic only, etc. and the 401K does need to be a level weekly/monthly amount. People could stuff it when working and take a break when not. Have you already contacted multiple agents for offers?
So far all I have done is sent out the email to everyone to see if there was interest.  We will begin looking into it this week to see what is reasonable, and what is not.  I prefer Blue Cross/Blue Shield and Etna... But we will have to see what happens.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: rocknrollrick on Jun 20, 2005, 12:00
Sounds like a great idea!!! You also may want to look into stop gap insurance this is major medical with a extreme deductable like $5000.00 to $10,000.00. The advatage is very low premiums but you're covered for major illness usally up to $5,000,000.00
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: aquafur on Jun 20, 2005, 09:05
I have been approached by MANY people, suggesting that I offer group insurance for nuclear workers.  In recent months, the request has come more frequently from more sources.  I believe that we can work out a deal where all nuclear workers can get a group rate as NukeWorker members.  This rate should be better than what most companies can offer.  In fact, I'm proposing that while you are working, your company take the money they would normally pay towards your insurance, and send it to us to cover your plan (pre tax).  Then, when you get laid off, you won't have to worry about cobra, and setting up new insurance.  And you won't have to worry about the different plans from different companies.

I'll get some rates for different levels of coverage as well.  Some people only want major medical with a large deductible; others want full coverage with a small deductible.  We will offer several options.

What does everyone think?  I know less than nothing about insurance, but I am willing to make this happen, to help everyone out.  How many people are interested in this?
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: "E" on Jun 20, 2005, 10:15
Yes please!  ;D
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Radstalker on Jun 20, 2005, 10:41
  I think it would be great, if we could get better rates. Being a group I would thik that rates would be alot cheaper and the prospect of not having a lapse in coverage would be a plus. Great Idea.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Radwraith on Jun 20, 2005, 11:32
Ditto on all the finding coverage and cobra Stuff! Mike, Like you I know very little about insurance other than if done individualy it's ridiculous.  If  you can find something that's reasonable and doesn't have a ridiculous waiting period, I'll sign on. Keep me posted!  ;D
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Carolina Jethro on Jun 20, 2005, 12:02
I think it would be a great idea too. I have gone without insurance many times and not go to the doctor because of that when I really needed to. I think offering tiers where you can pay more for less decuctible or better plans that include dental and vision would be the way to go. Thanks for the effort and Good luck!
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Camella Black on Jun 20, 2005, 01:25
YES, this is something that I have wanted for a very long time. I have not had health ins. for many years (1988) and when I finally got signed on this year, Henry's being laid off ...oh well you all know the story of Cobra.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Rennhack on Jun 20, 2005, 02:05
From what I understand, COBRA is the actual cost of the plan you had under your employer.  While employed, they paid the difference.  I think we can do a LITTLE better than COBRA, but not much.  The difference would be that it never changes, there is no waiting period every time you get a new job, it would be cheaper than non-group insurance, you pick the plan (low deductible, high deductible, vision, dental, etc).

When you ARE employed, and your company would contribute their share to the group plan to help relieve the burden from you.

So far, I have talked to one broker, and this is what they had to say:

Quote
Michael, thanks for the inquiry.  I am an independent broker in Chattanooga.  I am contracted with Blue Cross Blue Shield, United, John Deere, Humana, and Principal.  My sense is that Blue Cross Blue Shield would be your best carrier.  They do a great job with national companies.  I have already talked with my underwriter at Blue Cross about your situation.  They would be interested in talking with you about a self funded arrangement (they will not do a fully insured arrangement).  This means that they would offer their administrative services for a small fee.  They pay your claims, and your association reimburses them periodically for the claim amounts. 
 
I would like to talk with you in more detail if you are interested.  My contact information is listed below. 

I have talked with other people, and they tell me the self inshured plan is the way to go.  You get the lowest rates that way.  I know one guy that gets 100% coverage for cheep.  That is what we aim to do for everyone.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: deicide666 on Jun 20, 2005, 09:40
I think itz a good idea! We need something a little more stable & cost effective.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: HydroDave63 on Jun 21, 2005, 12:50
Self-insured is cheaper for the broker to sell, because NukeWorker.com will either have to hold some 3rd party reinsurance policies, or take out surety bonds, to create the deep pocket of reserve cash in case your claim hits exceed your pockets right off. The advantage to the seller is the traditional insurance gamble, if claims are less than payments.

Some other points you may want to consider:

1. Currently the offering of medical coverage is a recruiting advantage to those staffing firms willing and able to provide it. Having NukeWorker.com offer it will tend to nullify that competetive advantage, so you are indirectly affecting someone's recruiting rice bowl.

2. Group rates without a pre-qualifying physical are a throw of the dice for the insurer, and generally assume that the policyholder is healthy enough to work the job that offers the insurance. To keep rates low, issuers have to exclude some people. You WILL get grief from nukeworkers regarding "why are you being cold-hearted and excluding my loved one (who has disqualifying conditions)..."

3. Likewise, do you want the grief when "my loved one needs this $2 million treatment, why dont you offer more coverage, can't you make an exception and allow it, etc." Or litigation if policy holders dont get their way.

Having said that, it sounds like a noble idea, with the best desires at heart. I just caution that if the readers think that "Mike can give us really cool insurance with everything I want for the cost of a daily Starbucks because the greedy evil big businesses only rip us off" the reality of the math is surely going to disappoint. How many NukeWorkers can honestly say when they sign up that they are tobacco-free, low alcohol use, or not morbidly obese??? These are all MAJOR factors in health and life insurance policy costs. Those same TV ads that claim a 40 yr old guy gets 500K in life insurance for 25/month will NOT carry you if you are above 265# at 6 foot tall (been there, tried it).

If the math works, I'd love to see it happen; not only for the humanitarian benefit, but also because it will mark the transition of nukeworker.com into a substantial cash flow business. There once was a guy named Ray Kroc with 4 milkshake machines and a dream...

Dave
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Rennhack on Jun 21, 2005, 06:28
1. Currently the offering of medical coverage is a recruiting advantage to those staffing firms willing and able to provide it. Having NukeWorker.com offer it will tend to nullify that competetive advantage, so you are indirectly affecting someone's recruiting rice bowl.

2. Group rates without a pre-qualifying physical are a throw of the dice for the insurer, and generally assume that the policyholder is healthy enough to work the job that offers the insurance. To keep rates low, issuers have to exclude some people. You WILL get grief from nukeworkers regarding "why are you being cold-hearted and excluding my loved one (who has disqualifying conditions)..."

3. Likewise, do you want the grief when "my loved one needs this $2 million treatment, why dont you offer more coverage, can't you make an exception and allow it, etc." Or litigation if policy holders dont get their way.

1. Isn't a problem, in the 'old days' companies were proud of their insurance but not any more.  They would welcome the help. (IMHO).
2.  Ouch.  Didn't think about that.
3.  Ouch.  Didn't think about that either.  BUT, the Blue Cross people adminsiter the program, so it't not like I would be approving ir disallowing anyone.  It would still be the insurance people doing it.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: USMCRADCON on Jun 21, 2005, 08:58
I would be glad, as would most, to at least hear what it is that you find out Mike.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: TaskJobs on Jun 21, 2005, 10:06
Mike,
Adding my 2 cents worth now. As a former Benefits Coordinator I am glad to be out of the game.  Employees do tend to blame the Coordinator when their claims aren't paid etc. I've even had ppl tell me that "we" (being the company) were making a "killing" off the insurance b/c the rates go up each year. In fact it costs us to offer the coverage. Not just in the actual dollars that we pay but also in the time spent administering the plan.
Having employees in many states I have found BCBS to offer the best coverage for everyone. (no that was not an endorsement! just my opinion)
I think it is awesome that you are offering this. Kudos to you & I wish you the best.
Kim
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Rennhack on Jun 21, 2005, 01:45
I think it is awesome that you are offering this.

Just to be clear, at this time, we are only 'looking into' the possibility of doing it.  It might not be feasible.  But we will try our best to help people if we can.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: jamesd on Jun 21, 2005, 06:40
Insurance?  What's that? 

I think that it is a great idea that may be a challenge to administer.  Are you talking about approaching insurance companies with idea of a group plan?
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: darkmatter on Jun 21, 2005, 06:56
I didn't vote cause its not a yes or no question. I went the route of paying for independant insurance and got squeezed out due to raising preminums beyond my ability to pay in spite of increasing my deductable to $5,000. Family coverage isn't cheap.
Hydrodave has very valid points.
I would like another option other then my employer or unaffortable independant insurance.

Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Rennhack on Jun 22, 2005, 06:30
I've been in contact with a few agents/brokers, here is another responce:

Quote
Michael, thanks for taking the time to give me the complete situation.  Unfortunately, I think that getting a group health policy to meet your needs will be a long shot.  Health carriers typically have the following rules for establishing a fully insured group health policy:
 
1.  50% of eligible employees must participate
2.  employer must pay at least 50% of the employee's premium
3.  must have employer / employee relationship
 
Rule 1 is so that the carrier gets a fair element of risk.  If a carrier agreed to insure a company and covered only 10% of eligible employees, in theory, they would a large portion of the least healthy employees.  Rule 2 is to encourage rule 1.  If the employer pays half of the employee's premium, there is not typically a problem in getting 50% participation.  Rule 3 is an eligibility control i.e. to ensure that an employer (owner) does not use the policy to secure coverage for his sick friend, aunt, neighbor, etc.
 
We can get around these rules with a self insured policy, but starting with only 100 or so employees, I think it would be too risky for you.
 
Michael, I would be glad to talk with you more about this.  I am a former Underwriter, so I understand financial arrangements and carrier policy.

I'm still working on it...
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: ronald r como on Jun 29, 2005, 07:13
Hello Rennhack;
The insurance idea is a great!!!! I wish us luck (all hp's).
Lets take it one step further, I know the union notion failled in the past, maybe we don't need a offical union but insted a professional group w/ a back bone and a goal! (yes yes I know it sounds like a union) why should all the other trades get all the bennies and not us, it blows my mind when i think about it.

I am not sure how this would work?
We stick together for once and fight for what is right! like a fare wage for our responsibilities and we have a lot of them! and retirement/ a better 401, training/ education, god if all stick together our field could be so much richer and i don't mean just money!
what do you think? hell what does everyone think?   
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Rennhack on Jun 30, 2005, 06:29
The topic is inshurance, please stay on topic.  Start another thread for another topic.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: hglower01 on Jun 30, 2005, 11:46
Even with all the problems that might be encountered, the idea of health insurance that would not change because you have to pick up another job is totally 'rad'. :P
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: PJones on Jul 01, 2005, 02:27
Mike,

I think most of us are hoping for the best!  We will be very interested in signing on if the plan can cost any fraction of a typical Cobra rate.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: SloGlo on Jul 07, 2005, 06:12
count me in!   8)
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Aitch-Pee on Jul 10, 2005, 08:44
I would strongly consider getting on board with a "Nukeworker Insurance Group"; however, need to know the specifics by October or so to be able to make a decision for 2006.

My current coverage is not good.  Paying over $4000 per year for coverage that has $1000 deductible per person per year is insane, and......I have heard that my company will pay me more per hour if I drop the insurance to help me with out of pocket expenses.  Probably comes to more like $7000-8000 per year coming out of my pocket already.

Then, when I do go to the doctor (which is infrequent), I get hammered with co-pays and other surprise expenses.  Can it get any worse?

How could I not be interested in another option?  Darn near anything has to be better.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: hamsamich on Jul 13, 2005, 02:09
 ???what's the newest on the health insurance thing mike?  count me in. one question: if it does happen, will it be one price fits all or different scales?  For instance, NY is a "one price fits all" state, so for me to get insurance there as a healthy 35yo tobacco free non-obese male, it is 300 bucks, way more than the 95$ per month NC would charge me for the exact same insurance due to my age, weight etc..  I don't mind a mild increase to be a team player, but 300 bucks for single coverage would be out of my pitiful league. jim
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: tigger on Aug 04, 2005, 02:58
Mike,
Just a tidbit on some of the topics that have come up over the insurance thing. It may help, it may not. I know Blue Cross Blue Shield, in just about any state, will pay coverage in any other state you travel to. You still have to go to approved providers in the network to get the same rate and not pay out of network coverage. They also have a rider that people can purchase that will cover then anywhere in the world. I only know about this because of the job I have now.
Something else you may want to look at.... Pre-existing conditions. Yes this will be a group plan, but it is not provided through an employer. With preexisting conditions, the only company that will cover it is BCBS. And that is only after you have exhausted all COBRA options. Meaning yuo have to pay COBRA benefits for 18 months. I was faced with this this spring when my ex lost his job and we lost our insurance. My daughter has diabetes, and I could not find a single insurance company to cover her.
BCBS from doing my research on trying to get coverage for my daughter, I found to have the best plans at the best rates. I have also used BCBS and have not had any problems with my benefits being paid. This is a great benefit. When you are just gettin gover an illness the last thing you want to deal with is trying to pay hospital bills too, or figuring out what you have to pay. with Aetna, we had many problems.
The other issue that I saw on here was the waiting period. If you have maintained coverage BCBS does not have the waiting period. If you have not maintained coverage, I believe the waiting period is 6 months for preexisting conditions and 30 days for everyone else.
I hope this helps. I have been in positions where i have wondered how I am going to pay the medical bills and it is horrible. I wish you luck on this Mike. If you have any questions or I can help you in any way, please email me.

Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Rennhack on Aug 04, 2005, 05:09
Update:

I'm gathering the questions the insurance companies are going to ask me, i.e. demographics.  When I know what the questions are, I will create a web form with them.  I'll then send out the email asking people to take the survey.

Once I have a data base of the demographics, and how many initial participants we have, I can start to shop for insurance.  I have talked to many people about all of the options available.  We are progressing at a snails pace, but we are still moving forward.  It could take years to get this going, but I am hoping it will be less than 12 months.

Let me tell you one thing, the interest is there, and I want to help people.  This will happen at one level or another, eventually.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: hatchling2002 on Aug 14, 2005, 12:14
Here’s what I found out. Hope this helps. With BCBC of NC and $500.00 deductible for 2 people it’s about $4100 a year. With Bartlett it was $5800 for the same from BCBC of Mass.

Humana Health Plans
1-800-709-7809   
https://www.humana-one.com
   Phoenix, Arizona      $500    $234.00  $500    $388.02
   Denver, Colorado      $500    $270.22  $500    $457.97
   Miami, Florida      $500    $407.40  $500    $680.38
   Atlanta, Georgia      $500    $351.39  $500    $582.58
   Chicago, Illinois      $500    $332.55  $500    $551.32
   Indianapolis, Indiana      $500    $308.36  $500    $511.22
   Burlington, Kansas         $500    $361.27  $500    $598.93
   Paducah, Kentucky          $500    $234.18  $500    $388.26
   New Orleans, Louisiana     $500    $308.63  $500    $511.64
   Pontiac, Michigan          $500    $262.79    $500    $435.75
   Jefferson City, Missouri   $500    $283.87    $500    $470.68
   Springfield, Ohio          $500    $225.64    $500    $374.14
   Oak Ridge, Tennessee       $500    $248.34    $500    $411.75
   Lubbock, Texas             $500    $389.80    $500    $646.15
   Milwaukee, Wisconsin       $500    $321.02    $500    $532.24

https://www.COBRAInsurance .com
Monthly Payment Option. If you are unsure how long you’ll need this
coverage or prefer the convenience of making monthly installment
payments, this option is ideal. Each monthly payment is for 30 days of
coverage, up to the 180 day maximum Benefit Period.

Single:
$500 Deductible 80% to $5000 Initial Payment Due is $166.12 and
Subsequent Monthly Payments are $156.12
    
Couple:   
$500 Deductible 80% to $5000 Initial Payment Due is $265.34 and
Subsequent Monthly Payments are $255.30

The following are from
https://www.ehealthinsurance.com      
99501 Anchorage, Alaska           
BCBS of Alaska PPO 80/20 Plan       $500    $300.60    $500    $596.70

36601 Mobil, Alabama
Celtic PPO 80/20 Plan         $500    $415.80    $500    $825.30

72324 Birdeye, Arkansas
Blue Solution PPO BCBS of Arkansas           $750    $131.96    $500    $289.05

94704 Berkeley, California
Individual Select HMO BCBS of California   $0    $314.00    $500    $605.00

81248 White Pine, Colorado
BluePreferred $5k Coinsurance
BCBS of Colorado            $500    $294.30    $500    $518.40

06103 Hartford, Connecticut
Celtic AnyDoc PPO 80/20 Plan      $500    $389.93    $250    $888.69
 
20024 Fort McNair, Washington DC
BCBS CareFirst BluePreferred      $500    $239.00    $500    $478.00
 
32359 Steinhatchee, Florida
Humana HumanaOne Individual       $500    $275.20    $500    $578.88
 
19808 Marshallton, Delaware
Celtic PPO 80/20 Plan         $500    $339.30    $500    $615.60

30120 Euharlee, Georgia
Kaiser Permanent Plan B         $500    $256.00    $500    $450.00
 
96708 Haiku,  Hawaii
Kaiser Permanent $20 Plan         $0    $191.84    $500    $382.68
 
83604 Riddle, Idaho
BCBS of Idaho BlueCare PPO 1000      $1,000    $293.08    $500    $496.75

62216 Germantown, Illinois
Aetna IL PPO 500            $250    $315.66    $500     $559.00

47441 Vicksburg, Indiana
Anthem, BCBS of Indiana
Blue Access - Plan 2         $250    $382.06    $500    $532.00
 
50226 Crocker, Iowa
Celtic PPO 80/20 Plan         $500    $270.90    $500    $491.40

67758 Sharon, Knasas
Humana HumanaOne Individual                   $500    $361.21    $500    $598.93
 
42633 Bethesda, Kentucky
HumanaOne Plan              $500    $268.33    $500    $442.37

70775 Saint Francisville, Louisiana
BCBS of Louisiana HMO/POS Plan 1              $0    $380.62    $0    $623.58

04549 Boothbay, Maine
               
20680 Ridge, Maryland
BCBS of Maryland Personal Comp      $500    $200    $500    $400.00

02215 Kenmore, Massachusetts
               
48230 Detroit, Michigan
BCBS of Michigan Individual Care      $500    $335.70    $0    $532.85
 
55426 Minneapolis, Minnesota
BCBS of Minnesota Aware CareSM Plan           $500    $264.00    $500    $475.50

39150 Port Gibson, Mississippi
Celtic Managed Indemnity 80/20 Plan           $500    $581.24    $500    $1,039.04
 
65721 Springfield, Missouri
BCBS of Missouri BlueCHOICE                     $0    $366.00    $0    $603.00
 
59071 Alpine, Montana
Celtic Managed Indemnity 80/20 Plan             $500    $394.20    $500    $747.90
 
68009 Blair, Nebraska
Celtic Managed Indemnity 80/20 Plan            $250    $404.1   $500    $747.00
 
89833 Shantytown, Nevada
PacifiCare Signature Options PPO Plan 2   $500    $410.00   $500   $747.71

03304 Bow, New Hampshire
               
08731 Forked River, New Jersey
Oxford NJ Individual HMO Plan $15 copay   $0    $538.56    $0    $1,167.20

88201 Roswell, New Mexico
BCBS of New Mexico BlueChoice                 $250    $352.92    $250    $605.60

13693 Three Mile Bay, New York
GHI - GHI Alliance Value Plan      $0     $283.54    $0    $679.98

28164 Stanley, North Carolina
Blue Advantage - Plan B          $500    $263.42    $500    $464.48

58580 Zap, North Dakota
Fortis PPO X-tra            $1,000 $280.46    $1,000 $465.41

43782 Shawnee, Ohio
BCBC of Ohio Blue Access - Plan 2      $250    $358.04    $500    $479.54

73759 Medford, Oklahoma
Golden Rule Copay 35         $750    $299.04    $750    $482.38

97620 Adel, Oregon
LifeWise Preferred            $500    $304.00    $500    $606.00

17272 Zullinger, Pennsylvania
Golden Rule Copay 25         $500    $417.00    $500    $465.00

29835 Britts, South Carolina
Celtic Select PPO 80/20 Plan      $500    $418.40    $500    $744.30
 
57720 Buffalo, South Dakota
Celtic AnyDoc PPO 80/20 Plan      $500    $298.80    $500    $541.80

38135 Bartlett, Tennessee
BCBS of Tennessee PPO Plan                    $500    $304.86    $500    $522.26
 
77536 Deer Park, Texas
Aetna PPO 500            $500   $375.00    $500    $781.00
 
84101 Salt Lake City, Utah
BCBS of Utah BlueAdvantage Copay Plan   $500    $217.80    $500    $401.50

05661 Cadys Falls, Vermont
               
24201 Bristol, Virginia
UniCare UNICARE 500         $500    $250.00    $500    $422.00
 
98220 Acme, Washington
BCBS of Washington Breakthru 80 Plan         $500    $305.00    $500    $557.00
 
25059 Dixie, West Virginia
               
54739 Elk Mound, Wisconsin
Humana HumanaOne Plan With Office Visit Copay, $0 Rx Deductible      
                          $500    $324.25    $500    $534.20
 
82942 Point of Rocks, Wyoming
Celtic Managed Indemnity 80/20 Plan          $500    $360.90    $500    $655.20
</pre>
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Debo on Aug 15, 2005, 01:16
HI Mike,

I drop $768.52 monthly for the 80/20 BCBS plan with Bartlett while on cobra, which is about 6 months of the year. The other 6 months BNI pays half the premium. There is a $1000 individual deductible annually. This is a lot of money $8k And this is before I see a doctor!!  BUT
I am not complaining.
Because if I was not in a group policy the Insurance Industry would either not cover me or charge twice as much.
I am always looking for a better rate. If Nukeworker can provide it then I would Buy It.
Just my two cents!
 ;D
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: DrBillCorcoran on Nov 10, 2005, 08:46
About a month ago I got a junk mail from a business insurance agent touting his ability to "understand the client's business and be part of the insurance solution." I called him and had a nice chat, in which he said he thought he could help.

I haven't heard back.

So things are the same.

After a year of searching there is exactly one identified insurance agent that will cover us.

I guess I should give thanks for that one, but it does feel iffy.

If you know of an insurance agent that services small nuclear consulting outfits in the Northeast, let me know at 860-285-8779.

OBTW: We are looking for general business liability insurance. Our health insurance seems stable.
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: NJ on Jan 09, 2009, 05:27
These two links should be linked togeather...
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: NJ on Jan 12, 2009, 04:59
Update:

I'm gathering the questions the insurance companies are going to ask me, i.e. demographics.  When I know what the questions are, I will create a web form with them.  I'll then send out the email asking people to take the survey.

Once I have a data base of the demographics, and how many initial participants we have, I can start to shop for insurance.  I have talked to many people about all of the options available.  We are progressing at a snails pace, but we are still moving forward.  It could take years to get this going, but I am hoping it will be less than 12 months.

Let me tell you one thing, the interest is there, and I want to help people.  This will happen at one level or another, eventually.
Mike, I haven't seen any conversation from you on this topic.  Could you comment?
Title: Re: NukeWorker Insurance
Post by: Rennhack on Jan 12, 2009, 05:11
Mike, I haven't seen any conversation from you on this topic.  Could you comment?
The thread you are posting to is 4 years old.  Nothing has been done in 4 years, because it was decided that it wouldn't work.