After more 18 months of research and analysis, it appears evident that the voluntary program now in place across the church is becoming increasingly inefficient, inequitable, and unaffordable. CPG's research indicates that a denominational health plan is both feasible and advantageous. The proposed program would have the following characteristics:
1. Mandatory participation of all domestic dioceses (including Puerto Rico), congregations and official agencies of The Episcopal Church
2. Funded healthcare benefits for clergy and lay employees regularly scheduled to work at least 1,500 hours per year
3. Employees may waive coverage in the denominational health plan when coverage is available through another approved source
4. Centralized and simplified administration through the Episcopal Church Medical Trust
5. Local control and choice for each diocese and participating group
- Local diocese or group will determine employee cost-sharing requirements for eligible clergy and lay employees.
- Cost-sharing requirements will be the same for eligible clergy and lay employees.
- Local diocese or group will annually select healthcare plans for their congregations and employees.
- Local diocese will determine participation requirements for schools, day care facilities and other diocesan institutions.
6. Access for all employees to purchase healthcare benefits through a participating employer