North Dakota Group Health Insurance & Employee Benefits Packages

Taylor Benefits has more than two and a half decades of success creating custom collective insurance plans for our clients. As a result, we understand the needs and priorities of groups seeking healthcare, no matter what state the group is in.

While our plans actively leverage current market offerings, they are also unique and designed to provide value to each client. We consider what works and doesn’t work within the marketplace and provide a customized proposal for services to our clients based on their preferences.

We provide the following options to clients when writing their employee benefit programs

As an independent agency offering custom-designed healthcare protection packages, Taylor Benefits is not limited by insurance plans or carriers operating in the state of North Dakota. We are independent, and our group healthcare coverage plans are not reliant on any one carrier or plan. Because of this flexibility, we can offer our clients a wide range of healthcare options that might not be available to them using the state healthcare exchange or directly from an insurance provider.

Contact Taylor Benefits for free estimates for your group protection package. You are under no obligation to purchase a plan from us. We provide these estimates free of charge, so you can see the advantage of doing business with an independent insurance agency.

Large Group Medical Insurance Plans in North Dakota

North Dakota’s large employers have several choices when determining the best way to satisfy their obligation to provide affordable health insurance coverage per the ACA. As is the case elsewhere, many opt for preferred provider organizations, health maintenance organizations, and point-of-service structures. In addition, some businesses offer employees a choice between two or more to allow for individual preferences.

As a result, the employee might pay a different premium depending on the selection. Still, at least one available option must meet the affordability standard (less than 9.12 percent of gross income for individual coverage.) Taylor Benefits is here to advise you on the best plans for your team.

Coverage must include at least ten of the following benefits:

  1. Ambulatory patient services (outpatient care)
  2. Emergency services
  3. Hospitalization, including surgical and medical
  4. Maternity and newborn care, including delivery
  5. Mental health and substance use disorder services
  6. Prescription drugs
  7. Rehabilitative services and devices
  8. Laboratory services
  9. Preventative and wellness services, including chronic disease management
  10. Pediatric services, including dental and vision care for children under the age of 19

North Dakota Small Business Healthcare Benefits Programs

Small businesses striving to provide quality health protection to their employees may want to visit the ACA SHOP marketplace. SHOP (Small Business Health Options Program) is designed to assist small employers that want to offer health or dental coverage to their workforce.
SHOP is for businesses with up to fifty workers, including the owner. The employer can purchase insurance through the platform, from a broker, or directly from an insurer. The SHOP website explains employee eligibility plus the potential tax credit for companies that start offering coverage.

North Dakota small businesses unable to offer health assurance can assist with their employees’ healthcare costs by creating a Qualified Small Employer Health Reimbursement Arrangement. These accounts allow employers to contribute non-taxed money to an employee’s expenses, including employees’ premiums and copayments, for qualified plans.

Employee Incentives and Workplace Advantage Packages

Employer studies show that workers consider benefits plans as a significant factor when evaluating job offers. If your company is working hard to recruit and retain top talent in the state, a healthy benefits package is a tool that can help. Healthcare coverage is a good foundation, and employees also want to receive paid vacation and sick leave.

If you can add some optional benefits, consider looking next at dental and vision coverage and a retirement savings program like a 401(k). These are usually near the top of employees’ wish lists and help elevate the workforce’s financial security. Again, your Taylor Benefits specialist can help you decide how to create a package that will increase your appeal as an employer.

Relevant Statistics

  • Over 80% of employers offer collective healthcare insurance to their employees.
  • The average monthly premium for group medical coverage is $450 per employee.
  • More than 95% of North Dakotans with employer-sponsored team healthcare benefits have access to preventive care services.
  • Corporate healthcare solutions cover an average of 85% of medical expenses.
  • Approximately 75% of residents who have group health plan receive coverage through their employer.

General Facts

  • Group health assurance in North Dakota provides coverage for a group of individuals, typically employees of a company or members of an organization.
  • It offers a range of medical benefits, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and preventive care.
  • Employers are required by law to offer collective healthcare insurance if they have a certain number of employees.
  • Group medical coverage plans may have different levels of coverage and cost-sharing options, such as deductibles and copayments.
  • The ND Insurance Department regulates staff healthcare packages to ensure they meet state standards and provide necessary consumer protections.

North Dakota and Group Protection

When the Affordable Care Act (ACA) was enacted, North Dakota joined the federal exchange. As a result, North Dakota offers eligible marketplace packages, just like every other state that joined the exchange. However, you should inquire with an independent insurance agency like Taylor Benefits before signing up for a health plan through the federal exchange. Premiums for marketplace plans are rising, and even the basic programs may become TOO expensive for some. You might be surprised to find a more affordable option using a broker like Taylor Benefits. 

Side View of a Businessperson Working on Laptop Illustration

At Taylor Benefits, we thoroughly research all the pertinent policies, laws, mandates, and requirements for group protection plans as they relate to your wants and needs for group healthcare coverage. We also research your industry to view similar programs and policies. Our goal is to provide you with the coverage you need at the price you want. Contact us today to learn how Taylor Benefits can work for your group.

To learn more about the current state of North Dakota’s insurance plans as offered on the federal exchange, please see this resource from the North Dakota Insurance Department.

Frequently Asked Questions About Healthcare Protection and Employee Offerings

Group plans are contracted for by organizations and offered to their members or workers as part of a larger health coverage package. Because these packages are only for groups, individual consumers can’t purchase the same coverage. In many cases, at least 70% of the eligible participants must sign up for the health program to take effect. Because every plan and insurer are different, companies have a wide variety of available policies and prices to consider.

What Are Large Team Health Insurance Providers in North Dakota?

These are some of the most well-known providers of large-scale group health protection.

  • Taylor Benefits
  • Sanford Health Plan
  • UnitedHealthcare
  • Medica
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota
  • eHealthInsurance
  • Superior Insurance Agency
  • Humana

What are Small Business Group Health Insurance Providers in North Dakota?

The following companies offer programs that may be suitable for smaller businesses:

  • Sanford Health Plan
  • Medica
  • Superior Insurance Agency.
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota
  • eHealthInsurance
  • UnitedHealthcare
  • Humana

In North Dakota, What is Normally Included in the Benefits Package?

While offering excellent benefits is a great way to distinguish your company from the competition, it’s not always possible to offer every potential benefit. You can share the cost of health protection with your employees as long as their premium share does not exceed 9.12 percent of their gross income. Some benefits are low-cost and can be added with little overall expense. The benefits choices may include these:

  • Healthcare Benefits
  • Retirement Accounts
  • Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Education Assistance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Medical Leave
  • Paid Vacation and Sick Time
  • Flexible Schedule

What Percentage of Health Asurance Costs is Paid by Employers?

In North Dakota, employers pay an average of 83% of the policy expense for individual employees. That equates to an average employer contribution of $5959 yearly per worker.

The average cost of family coverage is over $20,000 per year, and employers often contribute to the dependent coverage as well.

What is Group Health Insurance?

Group health insurance is a type of health coverage that is provided by an employer or organization to its employees or members. It typically offers a wider range of benefits at a lower cost compared to individual health insurance plans. Group health insurance helps to protect individuals against high medical expenses and provides access to quality healthcare services.

How does group health insurance work in North Dakota?

Group health insurance in North Dakota works by employers purchasing a policy to cover a group of employees. The employer typically pays a portion of the premium, and employees may have the option to contribute as well. Coverage options, costs, and benefits vary based on the specific plan chosen.

What are the minimum participation requirements for group health insurance in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, the minimum participation requirements for group health insurance typically require a certain percentage of eligible employees to enroll in the plan. This threshold is usually around 75% of eligible employees to ensure a balanced risk pool and affordable premiums for all participants.

What types of group health insurance plans are available in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, businesses can choose from various group health insurance plans, including HMOs, PPOs, and POS plans. These options offer different levels of coverage and provider networks to meet the needs of employees. Employers should evaluate each plan’s benefits and costs to determine the best fit for their workforce.

What is the cost of group health insurance in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, the cost of group health insurance varies depending on factors like the number of employees, coverage options, and the insurance provider. On average, group health insurance can range from $300 to $800 per employee per month. Contact insurance providers in North Dakota for specific quotes.

How can small businesses in North Dakota offer group health insurance?

Small businesses in North Dakota can offer group health insurance by partnering with insurance brokers or agents who specialize in small group plans. They can also explore options through associations or chambers of commerce for group health coverage. Understanding state regulations and requirements is key for compliance.

What are the benefits of offering group health insurance for employers in North Dakota?

Offering group health insurance for employers in North Dakota can help attract top talent, improve employee retention, and boost overall morale. It also allows for cost-sharing between employers and employees, providing comprehensive coverage and promoting a healthier workforce.

How does group health insurance compare to self-insured plans in North Dakota?

Group health insurance in North Dakota typically involves multiple employees covered under a single policy, with premiums shared by both employers and employees. Self-insured plans, on the other hand, involve the employer assuming financial risk for healthcare costs. Employers can choose between these options based on factors like cost, control, and flexibility.

What is the main advantage of group insurance?

The main advantage of group insurance is that it offers cost-effective coverage to a group of individuals, typically employees of a company. By pooling resources, group insurance plans can provide comprehensive benefits at lower rates compared to individual policies, making it a valuable option for businesses looking to offer employee benefits.

What is the difference between a PPO and an HMO?

A PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) offers more flexibility in choosing healthcare providers without referrals, while an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) requires primary care physician referrals for specialist care. PPOs tend to have higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs, whereas HMOs often have lower costs but limited provider options.

 

Written by Todd Taylor

Todd Taylor

Todd Taylor oversees most of the marketing and client administration for the agency with help of an incredible team. Todd is a seasoned benefits insurance broker with over 35 years of industry experience. As the Founder and CEO of Taylor Benefits Insurance Agency, Inc., he provides strategic consultations and high-quality support to ensure his clients’ competitive position in the market.



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