2023 Employers Compliance Report
The Bermuda Health Council has released its 2023 Employers’ Compliance Annual Report, outlining key developments in employer compliance with health insurance obligations, in accordance with Section 20 of the Health Insurance Act 1970.
A spokesperson said, ”Currently, Bermuda has an employer-based health insurance system, mandating that employers provide health insurance coverage for their employees. This structure is designed to provide access to basic health coverage for the majority of the working population. The Council’s efforts to support this access is highlighted in the report.
“While the Health Council is responsible for enforcing employer compliance with existing legislation, we do recognize the potential and actual limitations of the current legislation and the evolving needs of the workforce. Thus, in 2025 the Bermuda Health Council will seek the public’s feedback on proposed enhancements to the current system as part of its review of the Health Insurance Act 1970.
“The 2023 report reveals several key findings, including:
- $468,763 in Standard Premium Rate [SPR] payments were recovered on behalf of employees.
- 55% of non-compliant employers reactivated their health insurance policies, restoring coverage for 1,171 employees.
- 111 non-compliant employers were publicly listed on the Health Council’s website for failing to maintain health insurance coverage for their employees.
“Through continuous monitoring and active investigations, the Health Council tracks employer compliance by addressing complaints from the public and reviewing insurer reports, which detail employers with inactive, terminated, or newly established policies. Non-compliant employers are given a two-week grace period to provide proof of coverage before being listed publicly on the Health Council’s website.
“Although there was an overall decrease in inactive policies, the last quarter of 2023 saw an uptick in non-compliance, suggesting possible challenges in the year ahead. Small businesses, particularly those with fewer than ten employees, are disproportionately affected by the rising cost of health insurance and continue to represent the largest segment of non-compliance
“Our broader mission is to enhance health outcomes for the entire community and ensure that all residents have access to quality healthcare. This includes holding businesses accountable for providing adequate health coverage for their employees.
“In 2023, we made significant strides in recovering unlawfully deducted premiums and restoring coverage for employees. However, the increase in non-compliance toward the end of the year shows there is still much work to be done, and we will continue to work tirelessly to address these gaps.”
The full 2023 Bermuda Health Council Employers’ Compliance Annual Report follows below [PDF here]:
Read More About
Category: All
