Cameron County officials are preparing for a significant increase in health insurance costs, as discussions during the recent Commissioner’s Court meeting revealed a proposed 22% hike in stop-loss insurance premiums. The current premium stands at $2.24 million, with the new proposal pushing it to approximately $2.8 million. This increase comes on the heels of eight claims exceeding the $2.50 threshold by a staggering $1.2 million.

The court acknowledged the need for a thorough review of the current insurance provider, Aetna, with concerns raised about the profitability of the arrangement. Commissioner Reese highlighted the county's health plan as one of the best in the region, noting that while it is well-regarded, the recent claims history has raised alarms.

In response to the proposed increase, officials emphasized the urgency of initiating a Request for Proposal (RFP) process to explore alternative options for stop-loss insurance. The court plans to formally address this issue in the next meeting, where a presentation will be made to provide further clarity on the claims and the implications of the proposed premium increase.

Additionally, the meeting included discussions on salary adjustments, reflecting a 5% increase already approved by the court, which will take effect on October 1. This adjustment aims to align compensation with current economic conditions and support the county's workforce.

As Cameron County navigates these financial challenges, the upcoming decisions regarding health insurance and employee compensation will be crucial in maintaining the well-being of both its employees and the community at large.