News Release -- 1998

Brethren Insurance Plan Offers More Affordable Opportunity for Pastors

In 1996 the BMP offered a first-time managed care option to approximately 40 percent of the members of the Ministers Group with an initial 10 percent reduction in premium. The option is available only in areas where a network exists. Members of the Ministers Group may elect to change insurance options each fall for the following year. More managed care options have been added since 1996 with 2 networks and 4 HMOs now available. A managed care option may be available in your area. Call 800-746-1505 for more information.

Discounts for Many Participants

Brethren Medical Plan - For medical plan participants not enrolled in a managed care plan, there are Multi-Plan discounts available at about 27,400 hospitals and other medical facilities located in every state. Members enrolled in managed care options who use out-of-network providers may also be eligible for discounts. For information on participating Multi-Plan facilities near you

and whether the discounts apply to you, call 800-746-1505 and ask for Nancy Miner.

Members of Ministers Group Offered New Options in Pennsylvania

Brethren Medical Plan - In Pennsylvania a new managed care option through Blue Cross/Blue Shield promises significant savings over the current plan. Enrollment packets were mailed to eligible individuals in October. For more information or to check your eligibility, call 800-746-1505.

Similar options are being sought for all members of the Ministers Group in areas where managed care service is available and can be negotiated.

More District Options Are Coming Soon

At the end of February, when proposals from regional and local insurance providers are returned, Brethren Medical Plan intends to offer HMO opportunities to more districts. Jeff Garber, director, says "Our goal is to have some plans in place by as early as July 1 of 1998 and by no later than January 1 of 1999. Districts will be phased in as soon as acceptable alternatives are negotiated."