Welcome Connor Gray to the Claremont Team

Please join us in welcoming Connor Gray to our Claremont team as a Broker Service Representative.

Connor brings a background in computer science and a strong analytical mindset to his new role. Though new to the insurance industry, he has embraced the learning curve, jumped right in, and is quickly building the knowledge needed to support our broker partners.

“Connor has approached this new role with curiosity and focus,” shares Laura Hogsed, Service Manager. “He’s eager to learn, asks thoughtful questions, and is already demonstrating the problem-solving skills that are so important in serving our brokers well.”

As Claremont continues to grow, we remain committed to investing in talented professionals who strengthen our service team and enhance the support we provide to our broker community. Learn more.

Simplified Ancillary Coverage for Groups of 2-500

Looking for an easy way to offer a complete ancillary package? ChoiceBuilder bundles dental, vision, life, and wellness into one streamlined program for groups of 2–500.

Why brokers like it:

• One enrollment, one bill.
• Mix of employer-paid and voluntary options.
• Access to top carrier brands.
• Broad, competitive provider networks.

Mix and match your perfect benefits package with:

• Dental: DeltaCare DHMO PLUS choice of 4 PPO carriers.
• Vision: Select from VSP or EyeMed networks.
• Wellness: Chiropractic and Acupuncture coverage options.
• Life Insurance: Employer-sponsored Basic Life with built-in EAP.

Download the Choice Builder at a Glance flyer to see the plan options.

Choice Builder includes the largest networks from each carrier:

• Delta Premier PPO & DeltaCare HMO
• Ameritas Classic PPO
• MetLife PDP Plus
• Anthem Complete
• VSP Choice (includes Costco, Walmart, Sam's Club)
• EyeMed Access

Request a ChoiceBuilder quote today and learn more.

Blue Shield MLR Employer Survey Due March 31

Blue Shield is requesting employer participation in its annual Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) survey for groups under 150 employees.

The ACA requires health plans to spend a minimum percentage of premium dollars on medical care and quality improvement. To meet this requirement, carriers must confirm accurate group size data each year.

Please encourage your Blue Shield group clients (under 150 employees) to submit their group size information by March 31, 2026.

How employers can submit:

• Online: Access the online survey, and use the Group ID with web key #44n50c.
• Fax: Complete the print survey and fax to (855) 895-3497.

Questions?
Access the MLR FAQs, or contact the Blue Shield MLR team at MLRassist@blueshieldca.com or (800) 352-5166.

PBM Reform: What Brokers Need to Know for Group Plans

The Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM) Reform Act along with new federal transparency rules targeting PBM pricing practices aim to improve prescription drug affordability and accountability in commercial health plans.

Key changes for group plans:

• Full rebate pass-through: PBMs must pass 100% of rebates, fees, and discounts to health plans.
• Drug-level reporting: PBMs must disclose compensation, reimbursements, spread, and rebate details to group health plans.

Blue Shield Perspective
Blue Shield has supported PBM reform through initiatives like Civic Script, with the goal of making generic medications available at one clear, consistent, and affordable price, and with Pharmacy Care Reimagined an initiative that moves away from the PBM model. Blue Shield is fully compliant with California’s SB 41 as of 2026.

As always, we'll keep you informed about healthcare issues and news affecting you and your clients. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you succeed.

Questions?
Contact The Answer Team at 800.696.4543 or info@claremontcompanies.com.