During the Geary County Commission meeting on May 27, 2025, officials received a positive update regarding the county's health insurance plan, which is managed by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas. The report highlighted a favorable loss ratio of 74% for the previous year, indicating that medical claims are being effectively contained. This strong performance has resulted in a modest renewal increase of just 2.5% for the upcoming year, a significant achievement in the current healthcare climate.

Courtney Bickelmeyer, a representative from the insurance management team, emphasized the importance of monitoring claims on a monthly basis to identify any potential issues early. While the overall loss ratio remains healthy, there has been a slight uptick in high medical claims recently, particularly related to low back pain and a notable pharmacy claim exceeding six figures. Bickelmeyer reassured the commission that these fluctuations are manageable and that the team is actively monitoring the situation.

The meeting also addressed strategies for cost containment, including a marketing initiative to promote the "Smart Shopper" program, which encourages employees to seek cost-effective healthcare options. This program aims to educate members on how to save money on their insurance by utilizing freestanding facilities for certain procedures, which can significantly reduce costs for both the county and its employees.

In conclusion, the commission's proactive approach to health insurance management is yielding positive results, with a focus on maintaining low costs while ensuring quality care for county employees. The ongoing monitoring and strategic initiatives are expected to further enhance the county's healthcare outcomes in the coming year.