Meeker Sharkey specializes in evaluating, negotiating with, and recommending insurers and providers to our clients. Our clients benefit from our strong position in the marketplace and enjoy preferred financial arrangements with insurance vendors and third-party administrators across the United States. Because we cultivate long-standing relationships with the major carriers, including Cigna, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare and Blue Cross Blue Shield, we are able to negotiate aggressively and obtain cost-efficient proposals for our clients. 

Meeker Sharkey utilizes a five step process when approaching the health insurance renewal:

1. Financial Modeling

• 120 days before renewal
• Collect/analyze claims data
• Use Renewal Estimator Tools

2. Presentation to Carriers

• Prep of bid specifications
• Selection of markets/funding strategies

3. Market Analysis

• Benefit and cost analysis
• Recommendations formulated
• Presentations

4. Implementation

• Coordination of process with carriers
• Plans submitted to HRIS (Human Resource Information System) vendor and loaded into system
• “Carrier Connections” established with health insurance carriers (if HRIS in place)
• Open Enrollment supported by employee communications program

5. Continued Maintenance & Long-Term Strategic Planning

• Deliver ongoing employee communication materials
• Provide oversight and execution of long range strategic plan

As we negotiate with the health insurance carriers, we will also examine your loss history, establish the necessary types of coverage consistent with your risk tolerance, choose carriers that provide superior services, and adopt the optimal funding mechanisms for your specific needs.

Selection Criteria

Our goal is to select carriers that will become compatible partners with your company. We have established rigorous selection criteria for potential vendors, and make recommendations based on the following vendor selection criteria:

• Overall service and quality
• Experience in administering network-based programs
• Commitment to continuous quality improvement processes
• Experience in administering multiple option health programs
• Quality of communication materials (e.g., booklets, EOBs)
• Effective administration procedures (e.g., coordination of benefits, subrogation)
• Responsiveness of group representative
• Cost efficiency
• Responsiveness to client feedback
• Professionalism of response to RFP
• Willingness to adapt to changing needs and circumstances
• Adequate staffing ratios
• Superior network coverage in relation to location of clients' employees