The Board of Pensions of the Presbyterian Church (USA) reviewed investments, assessed risk, made strategic financial management decisions and agreed that although returns in 2010 were very good, a 2011 experience apportionment will not be granted, at its March 3-5 meeting held at the Ritz Carlton in Philadelphia.

Dues increase for medical plan expected

The medical plan is a “pay as you go” plan, heavily dependent upon enrollment and dues collected each year and according to BOP President Rob Maggs, “We will need to increase dues in 2012 to maintain current service levels.”

In 2010, the medical plan was extended to add coverage for all dependents up to age 26. Habiltative services were added for children with particular development challenges and vision care coverage was added while deductibles and co-pays were slightly adjusted.

The total enrollment in the medical plan has been declining for years. The only group mandated into the plan are ministers of Word and sacrament serving in installed pastor and associate positions. BOP corporate secretary Andrew J. Browne acknowledged that cohort has fallen from just over 8,400 in 1997 to 7,055 at the end of 2010. Total medical plan enrollment in 2010 was 16,808.

The Healthcare committee of the BOP notes, “The ongoing challenge is how to cover rising costs over a smaller base. Operating reserves are declining and the medical cost trend is rising…”

To determine the size of the dues increase needed and the date upon which the increase would be effective, the Healthcare committee has docketed a discussion of a dues increase for active members at their summer meeting, June 23-25.

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