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Recently we surveyed Western Growers Assurance Trust′s participating employers and your message was clear:
′Give Western Growers members a good health product at a better price with better customer service than the
competition can give.′ This "Contract with Agriculture" is an affirmation of our renewed commitment to
exceed your expectations ... every day
Tom Nassif
President and CEO
Western Growers
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Frequently Asked Questions
Western Growers Assurance Trust is a Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement sponsored by Western Growers.
The Trust is a self-funded plan established under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act [ERISA] of 1974 to
provide health benefits to an employer’s employees.
The Trust is not acting as, nor deemed to be, an insurance company.
An employer’s participation in WGAT Health Benefit Plan(s) is contingent upon active membership in
Western Growers. While we are regulated by the Department of Labor and subject to state department of insurance regulations,
we are self-administered by our members – for our members. A fair price is all about value for our members. We offer the right product and services for your specific needs. Our retention level demonstrates that fair value is more than just price alone. Our customers demonstrate this by continuing to purchase our product. No. Western Growers wants to serve the needs of our members – in some cases, this can be afforded by extending rate relief by agreeing to look at your products and rates without a 12-month guarantee. When it makes sense – you may wish to opt for a shorter time guarantee in exchange for some rate relief. If you selected a six month rate renewal, we will honor that rate through the end of the existing contract. Our CFO, Ward Kennedy, would be happy to help answer any questions you may have in reference to our financial strength and condition. He can be reached at 949-885-2383 or or wkennedy@wga.com. Mr. Nassif is available to speak with you regarding any questions you may have in reference to our "Contract with Agriculture." He can be reached at 949-260-6613 or tomn@wga.com. We strive to answer 80% of all participant calls within 45 seconds. We strive to process 80% of clean and investigated claims submitted within 14 calendar days of receipt, and also respond to 95% of all claims-related written inquiries from WGAT participants.. Risk-Based Capital (RBC) is an industry accepted method to measure the amount of required capital that a company needs based on the inherent risks in the company’s operation. Western Growers has sufficient reserves to meet our incurred claims levels and the adequacy of these reserves is confirmed by an actuary in good standing with the American Academy of Actuaries. Yes, it absolutely does apply to you. This philosophy has always been part of Western Growers’ culture. Our “Contract with Agriculture” reaffirms our commitment, as a member-driven organization to always keep our members’ interests at the forefront of all of our efforts. This does guarantee a 12 month rate, however rates are handled on a case by case basis. We will always provide options to keep rates as low as possible. As an insurance agency, WGIS represents many different insurance carriers. WGIS does not participate in the pricing decisions for those carriers and therefore cannot guarantee those rates for a 12 month period. However, it is general practice that rates for these carriers remain the same for 12 month policy periods. No, this is really our commitment to you. We will give you a fair price, better customer service and products that fit your needs. We will listen to you. We will work harder, smarter. We value our members above all else. |
