In a breaking story this afternoon that is still developing, we have learned the health insurer Health Republic Insurance Of New York. This story is still developing and we will keep you up to date when we learn more.
Updated: 9/30/2015
Here is a recent notice we received from the Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales for Health Republic of NY
Dear General Agents and Brokers,
I regret to inform you that after coordinating with state and federal regulators, HealthRepublic will begin winding down operations in an orderly manner starting today. While we are deeply disappointed with this outcome, we believe it is in the best interests of our members. Starting a new insurance company is a daunting task in any environment, but the systemic challenges placed on us by the structure of the co-op program were simply too difficult to overcome.
Insurance plans for all Health Republic members will continue uninterrupted through the end of 2015. Health Republic will continue processing all claims for 2015, and members can continue to use their insurance coverage as they have all year. Members should continue submitting claims for all medical expenses that occur through December 31, 2015. As always, members will need to pay premiums in accordance with plan rules for coverage to remain in effect.
We are notifying all individual members that they will need to select a new health insurer for 2016 during open enrollment and their insurance agent can assist them. Existing HealthRepublic small group plans also currently remain in effect. NY Department of Financial Services (DFS) and New York State of Health (NYSOH) will evaluate the best course of action with regard to small group plans. Any future determinations made on small group plans will be announced with appropriate notice to help provide a transition period to new coverage and protect policyholders.
Any members facing issues with their coverage or who have additional questions should contact the NY DFS consumer help line at 1-800-342-3736. Beginning September 26, the NY DFS consumer help line will have extended hours in the coming weeks and will be available on weekdays (Monday through Friday) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m and on Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Consumers with questions about coverage available on the New York State of Health marketplace may also contact the NYSOH customer service line at 1-855-355-5777.
We appreciate your continued support in ensuring our members have a seamless transition with no gaps in coverage. Our broker relations managers and broker service department remain committed to assisting you during this transition. Please feel free to contact us at 888-990-5702 if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
William M. Friedman
Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales
Health Republic Insurance of New York