Posted on: Tuesday, November 6, 2001

Bond sought from insurer

Advertiser Staff and News Services

Hawai'i has joined other states in asking an unauthorized health insurer based in Indiana to post a bond of $5 million to $6 million to forestall further regulatory action.

State insurance commissioner Wayne Metcalf said TRG Marketing LLC has produced no financial records or studies supporting premiums it charges or expected claims by its members.

A preliminary audit by the federal Department of Labor showed that TRG marketed its plan to 795 employers covering roughly 5,500 employees in 33 states, including Hawai'i, Metcalf said.

Metcalf said former Hawaii HealthCare Alliance members who have enrolled in TRG should reconsider paying any additional premiums until the plan can show it is financially sound. Metcalf urged enrollees with questions or concerns to contact the Insurance Division at 586-2790.