Carriers Selling Direct

[NewHealthStrategies]

Wondering if anyone has knowledge of carriers like United Health Care selling to small businesses DIRECTLY and NOT using agents? I know many do on the individual side, but I'm curious about the small group side only. Thanks in advance for weighing in.

 

[ABC]

I have not seen it happen.

Before a large company starts selling small group direct they will go completely direct with the individual sales.
The big carriers all have agents selling direct for them but those agents are more in house type sales. I have yet to meet one that is out pounding the pavement for business.

Wondering if anyone has knowledge of carriers like United Health Care selling to small businesses DIRECTLY and NOT using agents? I know many do on the individual side, but I'm curious about the small group side only. Thanks in advance for weighing in.

 

[Crabcake Johnny]

One of my better friends got caught up in that Sam. He was captive for Mamsi selling group and got fired when UHC took over.

 

[Full Throttle]

I look down on companies that sell direct, however, it's not all bad as it's much easier to take a group from a company rep that can't promote any other carriers. For example, I love running across groups with Federated coverage.

 

[FrankE]

In Florida , UHC is the only carier that is 100% broker driven, this is a big reason that most of book is with them. I am not sure about Cigna, they are new to the small group market in Florida, I will check with my AE.

 

[DENISE HOLLAND]

I just recently heard about UHC doing that with a small company, but Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC as well. If a company chooses to go that route, caveat emptor.

 

[sean23]

I have not seen it happen at all. I dont think it would be a wise use of resources for the carrier.