TIA to offer self-funded healthcare options

BOWIE, Md. (Sept. 13, 2013) — The Tire Industry Association (TIA) is planning to offer a self-funded group employee benefits solution to its members through an alliance with a unit of National General Insurance,

In the program — to be administered by National General's Association Benefits Solution (TABS) unit — TIA members will be able to choose from two of what it is calling the highest rated provider networks in the U.S., Cigna Corp. and Aetna Inc.

The TABS program, through its partnership with a number of national trade associations, already serves close to 300 employers representing approximately 20,000 covered lives. TABS can accommodate employers located in all states except Hawaii and the plans are compliant with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA).

"TIA has been exploring solutions to the health insurance dilemma for quite some time," said TIA Executive Vice President Roy Littlefield. "We believe TABS' unique solution may be a great option for many of our members. We anticipate significant savings and improved coverage for those who participate."

TIA describes TABS as "one of the country's premier employee benefits insurers focused on association and affinity groups" and National General Insurance as a "leading specialty insurance company providing personal and commercial auto insurance, health insurance products, and other niche insurance products."

Through its subsidiaries, National General Insurance writes more than $1.3 billion in annual premium coverage, TIA said.

In addition to the positive budgetary impact, participants will gain access to comprehensive coverage, superior wellness and care management, information and consultation on health care reform, and streamlined administration of eligibility, billing, and enrollment.

A comprehensive suite of products including dental, vision, disability and life is also available, TIA said.

In addition, employers that have a positive plan year will be able to roll residual premium dollars over to the next year to reduce premium in the subsequent year.

"We have heard from many of our members that finding an affordable benefits solution in response to health care reform is a top concern for their business,"said Wilson Beach, TIA director of membership.

"We are pleased that our partnership with TABS will be able to benefit many of our members. Even companies who are satisfied with their current insurance program should contact TABS for a comparison quote."

TIA will hold a webinar on Sept. 24 for those in the tire industry who are interested in learning more about the ACA and how the TIA/TABS solution may be a good fit. The webinar will start at 2 p.m. EDT. Participants may register at https://www4.gotowebinar.com/register/751558167.

To learn more, contact Jeff Crumrine, TABS Senior Account Executive at [email protected] or 336-435-869