Chamber BlueOptions Insurance Adds to its Options and Benefits for 2009 Suite of Insurance Plans Meeting Small Busi...(nsurance options and our local chamberpa...),Health

Created as an independent affiliate of the Maine State Chamber, the Maine State Chamber Purchasing Alliance, Inc. offers small businesses who are members of a local or regional chamber of commerce a suite of eight health plans including four PPO (preferred provider organization) plans with different deductibles and coinsurance levels, two HMO (health maintenance organization) plans and two Health Savings Account plans.

In addition to its expanded choices of plans, only 60% of a small businesses' eligible employees must participate to qualify for group coverage. Typically, the minimum threshold for participation is 75% of eligible employees.

In addition, Purchasing Alliance members can qualify for a discount on annual premiums if they undertake certain wellness activities. "As far as we know, this is the only small group insurance product in Maine that rewards employers for taking wellness seriously," said Connors. The discount would become available at the employees' annual renewal.

"Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is proud to team up with local and regional chambers of commerce in Maine to offer enhanced health coverage choice and flexibility for Maine's small business community," said Dan Corcoran, president, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine. "The more products and choices consumers have, the greater the likelihood they will find an insurance product that meets their individual needs."

Chamber BlueOptions is available to local and regional chamber members through their local insurance broker or through the Maine State Chamber web site. (http://www.chamberblueoptions.com)

About the Maine State Chamber of Co
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