Committee recommends Anthem for health insurance amid premium comparisons

Health insurance options took center stage at the City of Shrewsbury Board of Aldermen meeting on August 12, 2025, as officials weighed proposals from major providers. The discussion highlighted contrasting offers from Delta Vision, Anthem, and UnitedHealthcare, with significant implications for city employees.

Delta Vision proposed an 8% reduction in current premiums, guaranteeing this rate for two years. In contrast, Anthem suggested a 6.3% increase but offered a three-year guarantee on their rates. UnitedHealthcare maintained their current premiums for the same two-year period. The board was urged to consider these options carefully, particularly the potential financial impact on employees.

A key concern raised during the meeting was the out-of-network coverage differences. Anthem's plan provides only 50% coverage after the deductible, compared to Delta's 70%. This discrepancy could lead to substantial costs for employees if they require out-of-network services, prompting a recommendation to lean towards Anthem despite the higher initial premium.

The board also discussed basic life and long-term disability benefits, noting that the current provider would maintain last year's rates for an additional two years, alleviating immediate concerns about rate increases.

In conclusion, the recommendation to select Anthem for health insurance was driven by a combination of coverage concerns and the potential for better claims data access, which could ultimately benefit city employees. The board is expected to make a final decision in the coming weeks, weighing the financial implications against the quality of coverage provided.