On behalf of GNJ’s Board of Pension & Health, I share the following information:
At the 2025 District Conferences and at the May Annual Conference, congregations were informed of the 12% increase in the healthcare blended rate (rising to $27,100 in 2026 from $24,200 in 2025), driven by premium increases. As GNJ’s Board of Pensions and Health Benefits Chair, I committed to seek alternatives. Partnering with our Insurance & Benefits Manager, Alexa Taylor, we reached out to Willis Tower Watson (WTW) seeking assistance on a “request for proposal” (RFP) from other carriers. Along with Wespath, WTW has been GNJ’s trusted partner in these matters for over 17 years.
Unfortunately, what we learned is that the 12% increase is “good” and “not so good” news. Although this increase is not ideal, it is the most favorable outcome available in the marketplace considering our high loss ratio (the ratio of claims paid by an insurer to the premiums earned). Further, given some catastrophic claims, it would be a challenge to even secure coverage with another carrier even at a higher increase. Lastly, if we were fortunate enough to secure coverage at a lower cost (albeit a slim chance), it would be short-lived; after a year of actual claims, we would see a very significant increase.
The healthcare market is very challenging, and our population pool makes it that much more so. We need to remind ourselves that we benefit from being in Wespath’s HealthFlex plans in at least two ways:
- They cap the increase at 12%.
- They pool catastrophic claims with other conferences in HealthFlex, so we all share the costs.
Although I recognize that it may be difficult for some to accomplish this, one way to potentially reduce future premium increases is for individuals to take steps to maintain their health.
GNJ, through Wespath, offers a number of wellness programs which we encourage all clergy and laity to explore. Details can found here: https://www.wespath.org/assets/1/7/5491.pdf.
As we all are enjoying the summer months, I wish I had better news to share, but I wanted to provide at least this update on the alternatives we sought.
Blessings,
Rev. Elouise Hill-Challenger