BHC Releases Employers’ Compliance Report
The Bermuda Health Council has released its 2024 Employers’ Compliance Report.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Health Council has released its 2024 Employers’ Compliance Annual Report, presenting national trends related to employer health insurance obligations under Section 20 of the Health Insurance Act 1970. The findings reflect the Council’s continued efforts to strengthen accountability and uphold legal requirements for health insurance coverage.
“In 2024, public and private insurers reported 521 employer policies as inactive or terminated, affecting 2,262 employees—an 11% increase in affected employees compared to 2023. Despite this increase, the Health Council’s intervention efforts resulted in 64% of reported policies being reactivated, the highest reactivation rate recorded since 2019. This led to 1,456 employees regaining active health insurance coverage during the year.
“$582,851 in standard health premium was recovered on behalf of employees whose coverage had lapsed, helping to ensure they were not left uninsured or liable for medical expenses incurred during periods without valid coverage.
“Employer compliance is not simply an administrative requirement—it is a critical component of a fair and functioning health system. This year’s results show meaningful progress in restoring coverage for employees, while also highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by many small businesses. The Council remains committed to working collaboratively with employers and the broader community to support system stability and protect workers.
Key Findings from the 2024 Report
- 1% decrease in inactive policies reported compared to 2023.
- 11% increase in the number of employees affected by non-compliant policies.
- 64% of inactive policies were successfully reactivated after Health Council investigation—the highest rate since 2019.
- $582,851 recovered in unpaid standard health premiums on behalf of employees.
- 59 employers publicly listed as non-compliant (down from 111 in 2023].
- 23 compliance complaints received, a 28% increase from 2023.
- Small businesses [10 or fewer employees] continued to represent the majority of non-compliant employers.
How the Council Monitors Employer Compliance
“The Health Council uses monthly insurer reports and complaints from members of the public to identify employers who may be in violation of the Act. Employers are contacted and given the opportunity to demonstrate proof of coverage before enforcement actions are taken.
“Where warranted, investigations may include reviewing payroll records, pay stubs, medical bills, and policy histories. Persistent or serious cases may be escalated to the Department of Public Prosecutions for legal action.
“Our enforcement approach balances accountability with fairness. While we recognize the pressures some businesses face, employees are increasingly willing to speak up when their benefits are not being provided according to their employment contracts, and that willingness is driving real change. We are seeing more coverage restored, more gaps corrected, and more employers stepping into compliance when held accountable. Oversight works best when the public feels empowered to advocate for their rights.
Accessing the Report
“The 2024 Employers’ Compliance Annual Report is available at: www.healthcouncil.bm.”
The full 2024 Employers’ Compliance Annual Report follows below [PDF here]:
