Comparing health care plans in Maryland just got easier.
The Maryland Health Care Commission recently launched a new online portal called Virtual Compare, which allows small businesses throughout the state to research and compare health plans online. Using technology developed by BenefitFocus, employers can see a side-by-side comparison of benefits, premiums and out of pocket costs, looking at up to four health plans at a time.
Aetna, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, Coventry Health Care, Kaiser Permanente and UnitedHealthcare offer various insurance products on the Virtual Compare site. Benefitfocus hosts, updates and manages the configuration and presentation of health plans on the portal.
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"As states and federal agencies play an increasingly important role in health insurance selection, it is important for technology to grow with them," says Shawn Jenkins, president and CEO of BenefitFocus. "The portal gives employers in Maryland a free and user-friendly solution during this time of change."
The portal is a tool for employers to find the best plans for their employees, Jenkins explains. It is designed for employers with two to 50 employees that can view health plans offered by Maryland licensed insurers, non-profit health service plans and HMOs. Employers can contact an insurance carrier or broker at any time during the process to assist them with their purchase.
The MHCC Web portal contains carrier contact information and a registry of brokers allowing employers to quickly identify brokers in their area. Brokers can register online at any time by using the broker registration feature.
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