|
Aetna unveils no-frills plan
|
 |
May 4, 1999: 5:54 p.m. ET
New policy may enable small firms to offer health coverage at lower cost
|
NEW YORK (CNNfn) - Small business owners now have a less costly way of providing health insurance, thanks to a new no-frills policy Aetna Inc. unveiled Tuesday.
The plan, dubbed Affordable HealthChoices, will be sold to employers who otherwise can't afford to offer a policy to their staff or have had to rescind polices due to rising premiums.
So far, the program has received the regulatory nod from Texas, California and Maine, and it is also set to launch in Washington, D.C., where regulatory approval is not required. The insurance giant also is trying to win approval in 25 other states.
The plan, which could be available as early as July 1, has three levels, ranging in annual cost from $46 to $91 per person and from $156 to $275 per family.
Each level has its own set of benefits, but generally, the plan provides basic indemnity coverage, including some hospital and doctor visits. Participants also will be eligible for a wide range of discounts, including ones on dental, eye and alternative health services. Discounts on prescriptions also may be available.
At the higher cost level, a limited life insurance and disability insurance also will be offered.
Individuals will not be eligible for the policy and businesses must employ a minimum of two workers to qualify. The employer can elect to pay all or part of the premium.
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
