No switch in Milford health insurance [New Haven Register, Conn.]

May 08--MILFORD -- Union officials expressed thanks and relief Monday that the city is not switching its health insurance provider.

The Board of Aldermen was scheduled to vote Monday on switching health insurance carriers, but no vote was taken because it was determined none was needed.

Last month, Mayor Ben Blake said he negotiated a deal to save taxpayers about $1.1 million annually in premiums by getting Anthem to reduce its rates. Anthem agreed to other technical reductions, saving taxpayers an additional $400,000, Blake said.

Despite that announcement, health insurance had remained on the board's agenda. No vote was needed because no switch was being made, officials said Monday night.

The negotiated agreement allowed the city to stay with Anthem, which union members wanted.

Last month, Cigna submitted a low bid that would have saved $1.9 million.

After Blake said in April the city might switch to Cigna, more than 100 union workers packed City Hall and threatened to sue over a health insurance change.

The workers feared their doctors or services would not be covered in a new plan.

Public Works Union President Michael Hedman thanked everyone for not switching providers.

Blake told the aldermen Monday he was able to "persuade" Anthem to reduce its initial bid, and the company made an offer the "city could not refuse." Continued...

AFSCME Council 4 spokesman Larry Dorman said its insurance expert examined Cigna's offer and found it would have saved taxpayers $400,000, not $1.9 million.

"The switch would have cost taxpayers more money," Dorman said. "Our members stepped up to the plate."

Call Brian McCready at 203-789-5719 and follow him on Twitter @nhrbmccready. To receive breaking news first, text the word NHNEWS to 22700. *Msg and data rates may apply. Text HELP for help. Text STOP to cancel.

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