News

New health plan offering can help small employers save up to 40% on comprehensive employee health benefits 

Franklin Chamber of Commerce, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and One Southern Indiana (1si) have joined forces to help small businesses provide their employees with lower-cost, high-quality health benefits through the Advantage 1 Health program, a Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement (MEWA). Designed exclusively for members of the Franklin Chamber of Commerce and other partner chambers of commerce across Indiana, the program empowers small employers to provide big-company benefits at lower, more predictable costs.

Advantage 1 Health can help businesses with 2–50 employees save up to 40% on health benefit costs and offers flexible plan options designed to meet the needs of both employers and employees.

Through this MEWA partnership, Franklin Chamber, 1si, and Anthem deliver industry-leading small business health coverage with an unmatched array of plan designs and network choices. These plans leverage Anthem’s 80 years of experience supporting Indiana employers and their strong relationships with Indiana care providers.

"A strong business community depends on a healthy workforce. This partnership allows our members to offer quality health coverage at a more manageable cost, helping them compete for talent while keeping more resources available to grow their businesses and serve our community. It's a great way for the Franklin Chamber to support local businesses," said Rosie Chambers, President and CEO of the Franklin Chamber of Commerce.

Advantage 1 Health simplifies administration, enhances affordability and integrates wellness and preventive programs. Key features include:

• Broad care provider access: Every major Indiana hospital and health system is featured in Anthem’s network of providers. Members can continue seeing their doctors while gaining access to one of Indiana’s largest provider networks, plus seamless nationwide coverage through Anthem’s broad PPO network.
• Lower, more predictable costs: Some employers can save up to 40% compared to ACA plans, with simple plan designs, national care provider networks, and easier administration and budgeting.
• Flexible plan designs: Chamber members can choose from 42 health plan options to select the benefits and premiums that best fit their employee population and budget, including Clear Choice plans featuring transparent and simplified copay-based pricing for healthcare services.
• Network choice: Employers can choose from three Anthem care provider networks:
• HealthSync HMO — a network of high-performing care providers designed to deliver maximum savings and value.
• HealthSync POS – a flexible tiered network option that balances cost savings and provider access, allowing members to choose between a Tier 1 HealthSync network for greater savings and the broadest Tier 2 PPO network for expanded access.
• Blue Access PPO — the broadest network option, including nearly every Indiana hospital and physician.
• Simple administration: Anthem and program partners handle compliance and administrative tasks, making ongoing management easy for employers.
• Integrated benefits: Medical, dental, vision, pharmacy, and virtual care connect through the Sydney® Health app, a secure member website, and 24/7/365 support.
• Wellness and rewards: Each plan includes preventive care programs and wellness incentives. Members can earn up to $500 annually for healthy activities.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Indiana’s economy, but many continue to struggle with managing employee health benefits costs,” said Jessica Lopez-Liggett, President of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Indiana. “Together with the Franklin Chamber, we’re helping eligible small employers create greater cost stability and predictability while offering comprehensive health benefits for their employees.”

The health plan is offered in partnership with 1si, which acts as the sponsoring entity for the MEWA, but employers are not required to join 1si if they are members of the Franklin Chamber.

Small businesses interested in participating can learn more by visiting: anthem.com/advantage-1-health.

About the Franklin Chamber of Commerce

The Franklin Chamber of Commerce has been a leading voice for business and community growth since its founding in 1910 by creating a community of genuine relationships where businesses connect, grow and thrive. For more information go to www.franklincoc.org

About Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc., an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. Additional information about Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Indiana is available at www.anthem.com. Also, follow us @AnthemBCBS on X, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Media Contact:

Rosie Chambers, Franklin Chamber President/CEO
rchambers@franklincoc.org
317.736.6334