In the early 1990s, many employers in Washington County, Pennsylvania were contending with healthcare insurance rates that were intolerably high. Competition in the region was nearly non-existent and employers were experiencing yearly double-digit increases.

The region’s leaders – including employers, hospital executives, doctors and union representatives – banded together in an effort to introduce competition into the local health care market. The result was the Regional Employers Health Alliance (REHA) – a private, non-profit corporation that represents the collective interests of businesses. Through this unprecedented collaboration, they used their buying power to improve their community and their bottom lines.

REHA sought proposals from health insurance carriers and ultimately formed a relationship with HealthAmerica/HealthAssurance. The REHA relationship helped HealthAmerica/HealthAssurance to negotiate competitive contracts with area hospitals and physicians. In turn, REHA member companies have enjoyed a program that has helped to control health care premiums.

REHA’s initial success in Washington County ultimately led to its expansion into Fayette, Greene and Westmoreland counties and the negotiation of favorable pricing arrangements with additional life and dental carriers.

REHA entered into an initial three year contract with HealthAssurance, a leading carrier in Western Pennsylvania that provided employers with 17% off of current rates and rate guarantees capped at 18%. The program has evolved over the years. The current contract with HealthAssurance provides REHA member businesses with renewal rate guarantee of 12 percent. More than 400 businesses have joined REHA and collectively they have saved millions and millions of dollars. For more details regarding REHA, click here.