During the recent Martin County School Board Workshop, significant discussions centered on the district's employee benefit insurance, particularly following a substantial renewal offer from Florida Blue that proposed a 32% premium increase for the 2025-2026 plan year. In response, the board directed staff to collaborate with the Garren Group to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for fully insured medical and pharmacy benefits.

The workshop revealed initial offers from three major insurance carriers: Florida Blue, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare. Notably, Florida Blue's revised proposal indicated a reduced premium increase of 15.9% across all plan types, while Cigna offered a 13.1% average increase, with specific plans showing varied rates. UnitedHealthcare presented a more complex structure, with a net increase of 9.8%, but also highlighted potential disruptions in mental health coverage.

A key aspect of the discussions involved the implications of these proposals on the district's employees. Board members expressed concerns about the affordability of insurance for staff, particularly those with families, emphasizing the need for a no-cost option for employees. The board's insurance committee recommended including all three carriers in the next negotiation round, aiming to secure better terms and potentially lower rates.

The meeting also addressed the importance of wellness programs, with all carriers proposing on-site wellness coordinators to enhance employee health initiatives. However, board members questioned the necessity of such positions, given existing wellness resources.

As the district prepares for the next steps in the RFP process, including a "best and final" negotiation round, the board remains focused on ensuring that employee health insurance remains accessible and affordable. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges of managing healthcare costs while providing adequate coverage for staff, a concern that resonates deeply within the community. The board's commitment to exploring all options, including the possibility of self-insurance, reflects a proactive approach to addressing these pressing issues.