Ameristar to offer medical benefits to part-time workers [The Times-News, Twin Falls, Idaho]

July 23--Ameristar Casinos, Inc. said Thursday it will begin subsidizing medical coverage for part-time employees after researching methods for reducing part-time employee turnover.

The company, which owns and operates Cactus Petes Resort Casino and the Horseshu Hotel & Casino in Jackpot, Nev., will pay one-half of the premiums for part-time employees working less than 30 hours per week and their dependents.

"We recognize the importance of medical insurance for our team members and their families," Gordon R. Kanofsky, Ameristar's chief executive officer, said in a written statement. "This is another way we can show team members we appreciate their commitment to delivering outstanding service to our guests."

Ameristar hosted focus groups with part-time employees to gauge how effective the program will be, officials said. Employee feedback led to Ameristar's decision to make the care plan available to all part-time team members.

Kris Ann Brown, public relations manager for Cactus Petes Resort Casino, confirmed that part-time employees at its properties in Jackpot, Nev., will be eligible for the program.

Ameristar selected CIGNA company, which administers the health benefits plan for Ameristar's full-time employees and is also the insurance carrier for Ameristar's life, accident and disability coverage.

"They have one of the largest national networks of physicians, hospitals and other healthcare providers," said Cynthia Mercer, Ameristar's Chief Human Resources Officer. "We are pleased to add this to the other benefits currently offered to our valuable part-time team members: paid time off, educational assistance, our 401(k) plan and the employee assistance program." She said coverage will begin Sept. 1.

Joshua Palmer may be reached at [email protected].

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