MOUNT VERNON — The Knox County Commissioners on Monday discussed, but took no action on, employee health care benefits, looking at ways to save taxpayer money with a plan that is affordable and that will still provide a good plan for county employees.
The county currently is self-insured, with MedBen serving as the third-party administrator. Donna McAnally, broker, presented several options to the commissioners, who are also looking at the possibility of changing to a fully insured plan with an insurance provider.
If the trio approves of that route, the option would go out for bid for 2013.
The commissioners discussed various cost-savings options such as raising deductibles and increasing employee co-pays and out-of-pocket expenditures. They also talked about prescription drugs — brand name vs. generic — and over-the-counter medications and the long term benefits of paying for preventative testing for employees. McAnally also provided information regarding the health benefits offered by 23 other counties so the commissioners could see how Knox County’s health care coverage plan compares with other counties.
