Report: 28 AHPs active under 2018 final rule

About 34 association health plans have launched under a 2018 final rule that made it easier for employers to participate in AHPs, 28 of which are active, according to a new report by AssociationHealthPlans.com. The rule modified the definition of “employer” under federal law such that more individuals, including sole proprietors, are eligible to participate in AHPs based on geography or industry. Most of the new plans were launched by regional chambers of commerce, and most are insured through a third-party insurance company, according to the report. The plans are in 13 states, with only one plan sponsor in multiple states (Minnesota and Nebraska). A single AHP may offer multiple plan options that differ according to costs, benefits and network. The average number of plan options was 11.