In 2005, the Southwest Area Manufacturers Association (now known as the Missouri Association of Manufacturers) developed what would be the state of Missouri’s first private industry health insurance consortium. Undeterred by state laws prohibiting the combining of large and small employers into a common plan and premium structure, SAMA received what would be the first and last waiver of its kind from the Missouri Department of Insurance.
In 2006, SAMA led the state’s private industry through the unanimous passage of House Bill 1827, also known as the “SAMA” bill. House Bill 1827 was developed for the purpose of allowing small employers (3-25) the option to join together with larger employer groups in association health plans under a common plan design and premium structure. Association Health Plans allow employers to achieve long term rate stability, create large group buying power, and reduce vulnerability in claim risk.
SAMA’s first Health Care Consortium, SAMA I, is in its 7th year and has been able to achieve significant savings through their negotiated partnerships. The SAMA I and SAMA II Health Care Consortiums currently represent over 60 manufacturers in Southwest Missouri. The Missouri Association of Manufacturers (MAM) plans to continue to partner with Missouri manufacturers in the formation of future consortiums. The MAM Health Care Consortiums provide a practical option to employers searching for stability in the face of pending health reform legislation.
MAM currently has ancillary benefit programs in place for life, disability, dental, vision and hearing services, which are available immediately on a statewide basis. These ancillary benefits include multiple year rate guarantees, price advantages and value-added benefits.
Bill Hoffman Plant Manager Tyler Pipe Company Marshfield, Missouri
Mark Harper Vice President Window Technology Inc Monett, Missouri
Pat Hicklin Owner Candy House Gourmet Chocolates Joplin & Springfield, Missouri
Denise McIntosh CEO Custom Powder Systems Springfield, Missouri
"Relief! Providing access to quality health insurance is one of our highest priorities. Our costs had doubled in the last five years forcing us to reduce benefits and company contributions. As a member of MAM’s health care consortium, we are offering our employees a range of excellent plans. Our membership in MAM’s health care consortium gives us stability, dramatic cost reduction and an optimistic outlook despite today's unsettled health insurance market."
Steve Barnett President Joplin Printing Company Joplin, Missouri
In 2005, the Southwest Area Manufacturers Association (now known as the Missouri Association of Manufacturers) developed what would be the state of Missouri’s first private industry health insurance consortium. Undeterred by state laws prohibiting the combining of large and small employers into a common plan and premium structure, SAMA received what would be the first and last waiver of its kind from the Missouri Department of Insurance. 