NAR rolls out limited health insurance

WASHINGTON – May 7, 2009 – Realtors® without health insurance now have an affordable, guaranteed-issue option for coverage through a new Realtor Benefits partner program. Realtors Core Health Insurance (RCHI) from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) makes limited medical insurance available for Realtors, many of whom may not have access to quality, affordable health insurance.

“Given all that they do to build strong, vibrant, healthy communities, it’s just not fair that Realtors have limited choices for health care coverage – if they can get any at all,” says NAR President Charles McMillan. “While NAR continues to advocate comprehensive health care reform legislation for small businesses and the self-employed, we are pleased to be able to offer this new member benefit to help Realtors … right now.”

More than one out of every four Realtors have no health insurance, according to a recent NAR survey, and only 17 percent of real estate firms offer health care coverage for independent contractors, who are the largest segment of real estate agents.

RCHI is available to NAR members under age 65. Acceptance is guaranteed – no eligible member will be turned down. Though the plan is available throughout most of the country, Smart and Simple insurance development (SASid) and United States Fire Insurance Company are currently working with the departments of insurance to gain approval in a few states where it is not currently available.

The program’s three limited medical plans were designed to meet the diverse needs of Realtors, whether they don’t qualify for major medical health insurance due to pre-existing conditions, are on a limited budget, or need to supplement their current medical plan because of high out-of-pocket costs.

The program is underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company, rated A (“Excellent”) by A.M. Best, and includes limited indemnity benefits such as doctor’s office visits, hospitalization, surgery, emergency room, accident medical and a prescription discount card. In many states, network discounts are available through a PPO option, providing additional savings. Realtors can enroll by phone or anytime online; next-day coverage is available.

RCHI is offered through NAR’s Realtor Benefits Program in partnership with United States Fire Insurance Company and SASid. “I’ve created many insurance programs for many clients, but I’ve never seen an association so committed to the well-being of its members,” says SASid President Shannon Kennedy. “This is a sophisticated, tailor-made, user-friendly solution that benefits Realtors today.”

For more information about the program go to: www.RealtorsCoreHealthInsurance.com.

© 2009 FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

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