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Matthew Said:

Can a small business pinpoint who caused their group health insurance premiums to go up?

We Answered:

Contrary to the above answers in most states a small group premium can go up based upon the claims history of the group. It is not uncommon for premium to go up two to four hundred percent just for that one group.

Because of the HIPPA privacy laws there is no legal way for a business to pinpoint who causes the premium to increase. However, in most small groups it's fairly easy to figure it out because it's usually someone who spent time in the hospital or have taken many expensive tests.

Since the premium is based upon the claims experience of the group sometimes two or three people can contribute to the increase, which can make it harder to pinpoint one person.

Discrimination laws can prevent laying off an employee due to medical conditions. You'll have to find another excuse for laying off that person. Even with that person gone it can take several years to get the premium back down unless you completely change insurance companies.

Curtis Said:

Is there an oranization or company that bands together small businesses to get better healthcare rates ?

We Answered:

There are several "Health Coalitions" in various parts of the country. Normally by cities and various H.R. associations.

I would suggest "google" under Health Coalitions - state.