Benefit Advantages of the IPBC
Membership in the IPBC provides access to valuable resources, programs and services that are often unavailable to local governments purchasing health insurance through the commercial market. Through the strength of a collaborative purchasing pool, IPBC members benefit from enhanced solutions, cost-saving opportunities and dedicated support designed to meet their evolving healthcare needs. As a member of the IPBC, members have access to a myriad of benefits – which can be found below:
● Governance model that allows all members to have a voice
● Staffing model that is 100% dedicated to IPBC members
● Purchasing power from the IPBC’s nearly 25,000 policy holders
● Transparency and access to data for all members
● Best in class Vendor Partners
● Access to a full suite of benefit options
● Plan design flexibility
● Member options for GLP-1 weight loss medication coverage
● Additional programs - including cancer and family planning support, and unique offerings not typically available in the commercial insurance market
● Complimentary EAP Program
● Wellness Incentive Program
Better Financial Results from:
● Ability to carve out prescription drugs and stop-loss that results in significant savings
● Low IPBC group rates for dental insurance, life insurance and vision plans
● Interest earnings on member account balances
● Self-financing of the PPO Stop Loss Program
As your trusted administrator, the IPBC recognizes the ongoing challenges posed by rising healthcare costs, and we remain committed to helping members manage expenses while continuing to deliver high-quality benefits, programs, and services. The IPBC Executive Board and Staff actively evaluate opportunities to enhance value, improve outcomes, and support our members’ evolving needs, while continuing to provide the superior service IPBC member groups deserve.
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ACH Notifications Update
The IPBC is improving the process for the ACH premiums. When they are available, you will receive an email (the same as you receive other communications) with a link to the documents on the website and when the premiums will be pulled. This information can be found under Reporting >Monthly ACH Reports >The Fiscal Year – and can also be found here: https://ipbchealth.org/members/reporting/ach-monthly-reports/
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Segal Projected Health Plan Costs for 2027
The 2027 Segal Health Plan Cost Trend Survey provides projected healthcare cost trends for 2027 across medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision benefits. Based on responses from health plans and industry organizations, the report also examines the key factors driving costs and reviews actual health plan cost trends experienced in 2025. View the full report here. (PDF)
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Reminder: Open Enrollment Deadlines
For January 1, 2027, Open Enrollment, confirmation is due on August 28 for the following:
New ASO Plans and Plan Design Changes
New Fully Insured Plans (i.e., new vision plan, etc.)
New EAP or ID Theft Plan
Rate Tier Changes (i.e., 2 tier to 4 tier)
Population additions (i.e., separate cost population breakouts for union or non-union)
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Need to Update Your Contact Info?
Is your information updated in the IPBC system? If you are the Benefit Administrator and need to update employee contact information, there is a new link to do this - which can be found here.
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Monthly Financial Reports
View the June Monthly Financial Reports, in addition to all previous reports, here
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Wellness Program Updates
The window for wellness packet submissions has officially closed, and we appreciate all groups that completed and submitted their materials. Wellness packet reviews have been completed, and we are currently finalizing biometric screening results and wellness incentive data as part of the audit process. Once the final results are confirmed, your Member Service Consultant will review the results with your organization and discuss any next steps. Thank you for your continued commitment to employee wellness!
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Alera Compliance Updates
In recent years, the Illinois General Assembly has enacted several laws expanding and modifying required health insurance benefits across the state. While some of these mandates took effect in prior years, several new requirements apply to fully insured health plans issued or renewed in Illinois on or after January 1, 2026. View the summary of the most significant Illinois insurance law changes - and how they may impact your health plan here. (PDF)