The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) has filed an action
to stop Georgia-based Aliera Healthcare from selling health insurance in Texas
without a state license.
The public hearing will begin at 9 a.m. May 28 at the State
Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) in Austin.
Aliera claims to be running a health-sharing ministry and
therefore exempt from TDI regulation and reporting requirements. Texas law
requires health-sharing ministries to be non-profit organizations. TDI alleges
that Aliera is a for-profit corporation and is using only 20 percent or less of
the money it collects from consumers to pay health claims.
Earlier this week, the Washington Insurance Commissioner
ordered Aliera to stop selling health insurance in that state. And the New
Hampshire Department of Insurance issued a consumer warning that the company
may be operating illegally.
Aliera is believed to have more than 17,000 customers in
Texas. Aliera health plans sold in Texas remain in effect until after the
hearing and a ruling by the Texas Insurance Commissioner. TDI encourages
consumers to talk to their agents and research the company to help determine if
they have adequate health coverage.
For the TDI notice of hearing, visit the SOAH
website and search for docket number 454-19-4513.
For more information, contact: MediaRelations@tdi.texas.gov
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