Important Update: Bend Chamber Association Health Plan

Dear Bend Chamber Members,

We are writing to share an important update about the Bend Chamber Association Health Plan, one of the ways the Chamber works to support local employers, employees, and their families.

Providence Health Plan recently announced that it will discontinue most of its insurance operations by the end of 2026, including its small and large group health plans in Oregon. Because Providence has served as the carrier partner for the Bend Chamber Association Health Plan, participating members will soon receive formal notice from Providence regarding the discontinuation of coverage.

While that notice may understandably raise questions, we want to reassure our members that the Bend Chamber Association Health Plan is continuing. The program will remain available through a new carrier partnership.

Over the past several months, the Bend Chamber Board of Directors, Chamber staff, and the Health Insurance Task Force have worked closely with Johnson Benefit Planning to identify a long-term carrier partner that will preserve the value, stability, and affordability of the Bend Chamber Association Health Plan. Following a comprehensive and competitive Request for Proposal process, we are pleased to announce that Moda Health has been selected as the plan’s new carrier partner.

This transition represents a strategic investment in the future of the Bend Chamber Association Health Plan and in the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to supporting local businesses. Moda Health shares our commitment to Oregon employers and has demonstrated a strong interest in serving as a long-term partner to the Bend Chamber and our members. Together, we are focused on maintaining access to high-quality, affordable health coverage while ensuring the continued strength and sustainability of the program.

For participating groups that have already received and accepted a renewal confirmation, your quoted rates will continue through your current contract period. Moda Health has committed to maintaining those rates through the transition, providing continuity and stability for employers and employees currently enrolled in the plan. Moda has also agreed to match current benefits as closely as possible.

In addition to Moda Health, Kaiser Permanente options will also be available for eligible groups, including expanded opportunities for larger employers seeking additional plan choice and the option to offer dual coverage choices for groups of 51 or more employees.

At this time, no action is required by participating employers or employees. Enrollment information will be transferred electronically as part of the transition process, and we will continue to provide updates as additional details become available.

For members who are not currently enrolled in the Bend Chamber Association Health Plan, this update reflects the Chamber’s continued work to advocate for practical, high-value solutions that help strengthen our local business community. Access to stable and affordable employee benefits remains an important priority for many employers, and we are committed to keeping this program strong for those who rely on it.

If you have questions about the transition, please reach out to your broker partner or me directly at sara@bendchamber.org. If you are interested in learning more about Bend Chamber Association Health Plan, please contact Shelley Junker, shelley@bendchamber.org.

Thank you for your continued trust in the Bend Chamber and for being part of our business community.

Sincerely,

Sara Odendahl

CEO

Bend Chamber of Commerce