The AIKCU Benefit Trust is a collaborative health insurance purchasing organization serving AIKCU campuses that self-fund employee health insurance. The Trust was conceived at the request of AIKCU member presidents back in 2001 as a way to better manage continually rising health insurance costs. It was developed over a number of years and countless hours of preparation by a task force made up of member campus representatives and AIKCU staff.
The AIKCU Benefit Trust became fully operational in 2007; 2011 marked its 5th successful year. The Trust has grown from 4 participating institutions in its first year to 6 campuses in 2011. In 2012 9 campuses will participate, representing approximately 2,000 employees and an estimated 2,400 family members.
The Trust is overseen by an independent board made up of representatives from the participating institutions. The Trust currently contracts with Anthem Blue Cross & Blue Shield for network, TPA, pharmacy, and stop loss coverage.
While the AIKCU Benefit Trust never guaranteed against rising health care costs, participants have seen significant savings. The fixed costs associated with the self-funded plans has either decreased or remained unchanged ever year, with a 25% reduction in 2011. No participating campus has seen an overall increase in health insurance costs from their first day of participation.
For more information about the AIKCU Benefit Trust, contact Bob Johnston, AIKCU COO/VP of Business Services: bob.johnston [at] aikcu.org
