NEW CUMBERLAND — Hancock County Schools is currently exploring potential options for dental and vision coverage for both employees and retirees, with a particular focus on the possibility of Bento Dental managing the school district’s insurance plan.
During Monday’s meeting of the Hancock County Board of Education, Nathan Mazur of USI Insurance Services presented the potential benefits of Bento Dental acting as the administrator for the district’s coverage. The presentation came after concerns were raised by several teachers and retirees, prompting Superintendent Dan Enich to allow for an open discussion before any decisions are made.
“I see this as an informational session,” Enich said, noting that he had sent out invitations to faculty, staff, and retirees to either attend the meeting in person or listen by phone. “I want everyone to have the chance to hear more about this before we proceed.”
Mazur described the proposal as a “win-win” for the district and its employees, aiming to address any confusion surrounding the change. He clarified that Bento Dental would not be providing insurance but would serve as a dental administrator to help connect employees with their insurance providers and navigate the claims process. Insurance coverage, he suggested, would likely be offered through the Cigna network.
“Bento is a dental administrator, not an insurance provider,” Mazur explained. He added that the change would allow the district to maintain its current dental plan, expand the network of providers, and potentially reduce costs for both employees and the district. He also highlighted that the programme had received endorsement from the West Virginia Dental Association.
Board member Randy Swartzmiller acknowledged the concerns but emphasised the need for cost savings for employees. “We’ve seen the PEIA spiral out of control,” he said, referencing the West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency, which has been increasing premiums, including a rise of 12 to 16 percent for the current fiscal year. “We want to ensure that we’re providing at least the same level of care for our employees.”
Board member Jack Crow inquired whether other counties were using Bento for their insurance administration. Mazur confirmed that Harrison and Kanawha counties currently use Bento, and he believed the system was also utilised in Mercer and Fayette counties.
Mazur added that while the district could opt into the service at any point, a decision would need to be made by mid-November to ensure the new arrangement could be implemented by January 1.