Important Update: Group Health Plan (GHP) Renewal – June 1, 2025

May 9, 2025

Dear Valued Member,

We write to inform you of important upcoming changes to the RHAND Credit Union Group Health Plan (GHP), effective June 1, 2025.

Over the past policy year, the Plan has experienced continued high levels of utilization, with a significant volume of claims submitted by members accessing much-needed medical care. This underscores the real and ongoing value the Plan provides – but also contributes to increased claims costs. Combined with rising healthcare expenses and ongoing medical inflation, these realities have led the insurer to adjust premiums for the upcoming policy year.

We understand that this development may be difficult to receive, and it is entirely natural for it to raise feelings of anxiety or frustration. Please know that while RHAND was not responsible for the decision to increase premiums, we are deeply aware of the impact this change may have on your household, and we are working actively to safeguard your interests.

YOUR PEACE OF MIND IS OUR PRIORITY

We want to reassure you that RHAND is currently exploring all options to strengthen the long-term sustainability and value of the Group Health Plan. This includes working closely with our broker and advisors to examine the Plan’s structure, and – where necessary – pursuing significant changes, which may include engaging a different insurer or service partner in the future.

Our goal remains clear: to deliver a Plan that balances affordability, access, and comprehensive coverage, while staying true to our Credit Union’s values of fairness, solidarity, and service to our members.

WHY STAYING ON THE PLAN MATTERS

We understand that increasing premiums may cause some members to consider leaving the Plan. However, we encourage you to reflect on the important protection the Plan continues to offer, especially in uncertain times:

• Access to broad medical coverage, including specialist care, hospitalization, diagnostics, prescriptions, and wellness benefits.
• Continued protection for pre-existing conditions, which may not be covered under new or individual policies.
• Collective group rates that remain more affordable than many private alternatives, especially for members with existing health needs.

For many of our members, this Plan has been a lifeline – providing both financial support and peace of mind in times of illness or medical uncertainty.

We remain fully committed to acting in your best interests and ensuring that RHAND’s Group Health Plan continues to be a valuable and reliable benefit to you and your family. A separate communication outlining the updated premium schedule will be shared shortly.

Should you have any questions or require clarification on your coverage, our Member Services Team is available to assist you at memberrelations@rhand.org.tt or 627-4263 ext. 1106.

Thank you for your continued membership and trust.

Yours faithfully,

Ainsley Andrews
General Manager