Chamber Health Benefits Plan

SummaCare and the Greater Akron Chamber have partnered to offer Northeast Ohio small businesses a multiple employer welfare arrangement (MEWA). The Chamber Health Benefits Plan is a self-funded health benefits option that allows employers with 50 employees or fewer to join together to share in the healthcare costs of their employees. Being part of a larger, self-funded pool, employers can receive potential savings and have financial protection against unexpected claims costs.

Employers choose the right option for their employees by selecting among 16 benefit plans, including PPO and HSA-compatible plans featuring pharmacy coverage and four SummaCare networks, including The Preferred Choice Network which is a high quality, cost-competitive network comprised of Summa Health, Cleveland Clinic, including Cleveland Clinic Akron General and Akron Children’s Hospital.

In order to be eligible for membership, you must be a member of the Greater Akron Chamber or a participating affiliate chamber. Your company must be within the 21-county service area, which includes Ashland, Ashtabula, Carroll, Columbiana, Cuyahoga, Erie, Geauga, Holmes, Huron, Lake, Lorain, Mahoning, Medina, Ottawa, Portage, Sandusky, Stark, Summit, Trumbull, Tuscarawas and Wayne counties in Ohio.

MEWA Resources & Plan Designs

Small business owners talk about why they love the Chamber Health Benefits Plan.

Corcoran's Auto Repair Service

Halles Engineering and Design

Falls Auto Body

Bell Music

Frequently Asked Questions

Small Group Plans

What is the relationship between the Greater Akron Chamber and SummaCare?

SummaCare and the Greater Akron Chamber have partnered to offer Northeast Ohio small businesses a multiple employer welfare arrangement (MEWA), the Chamber Health Benefits plan.

What is a MEWA?

A multiple employer welfare arrangement (MEWA), also described as a multiple employer trust, is when a group of employers pool their contributions in a self-funded benefits plan for their employees. It is governed by a board of trustees who work on behalf of the members.

What is the difference between a MEWA and a more traditional insurance program?

A MEWA is a self-funded plan. Many groups will be able to experience a competitive rate that may not be available through traditional insurance programs. In addition, a MEWA can provide predictable, fixed monthly payments and protection with stop loss insurance.

Do I need to be a member of the Greater Akron Chamber to participate?

Yes. In order to be eligible for membership, you must be a member in good standing of the Greater Akron Chamber, a participating affiliate chamber or join at time of enrollment. Talk to your local Chamber of Commerce about regional membership with the Greater Akron Chamber.

What size employers can enroll in the MEWA?

The MEWA is available to businesses with 50 or fewer employees. This includes companies with as little as one employee.

Are there different plans and network options available through the MEWA?

Yes. A variety of plan options are available. Employers can select from various SummaCare provider networks depending upon their needs.

How do I get a quote?

To get a quote, contact your broker, call SummaCare at 330.996.8955 (TTY 711) or email quotes@summacare.com.

Are there ancillary options available?

Yes. Participating employers in the Chamber Health Benefits Plan are eligible to enroll in Humana group ancillary benefits. Products available include dental, vision, life and disability. Ask about these plans upon enrollment.

Questions? We're here to help.

330.996.8955 SummaCare Group Sales

quotes@summacare.com SummaCare Group Sales

For more information, contact your broker or SummaCare Group Sales.