by: Jessica Sheridan Assoc. AIA LEED AP
When the AIA stopped offering an endorsed group health insurance plan for members, many individuals and employers — particularly sole practitioners — were left to fend for themselves, wading through the many convoluted options for health care benefits. This week, the AIANY Member Services Committee announced a short list of brokerage firms that have expressed interest in working with AIA and Assoc. AIA members to meet their health care needs. According to the announcement, the Member Services Committee felt that with the NYC market, it would benefit members “to have access to more comprehensive no-cost, no obligation services, and personalized guidance through the health insurance industry in NYC.” With office sizes in a constant state of flux these days, having a broker to call and ask for advice can only help navigate the system. It could benefit businesses, employers, and employees.
The selected firms are the result of both personal recommendations and an interview process held by the committee — a process that has been discussed for years but began solidifying in March, according to AIANY Director of Member Services Suzanne Mecs. Each firm has an intricate knowledge about the many insurance company plans, and can help guide members to the most comprehensive plans at the best possible price. The shortlist includes:
– Charles D.F. Cohn, CLU ChFC; AXA Advisors, LLC, Charles.Cohn@axa-advisors.com
– Fredi Cohen, Fredi Cohen Benefit Solutions, fredi@fredicohenbenefits.com
– Michael H. Yates, Premium Benefit Planning, michael@premiumbenefit.com
– Eric T. Ling, MBA and Steven Skover, Planning Center for Professionals, eling@htk.com
On Thursday, 10.01.09, 8:30-10:00AM, the Center for Architecture will host an informational session for Chapter members may to the brokers. Click here to RSVP.
There may or may not be universal health care as we would like to see it in the future, but at least members now have a place to go for advice.