Canadian digital benefits platform League Inc. is adding a number of insurance partners in order to expand its benefits offering in Canada and the United States.
The new carriers include RBC Insurance Services Inc., AETNA Inc., Humana Inc., Cigna, United HealthCare Services Inc. and Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. “We’re not trying to rebuild everything,” says Andrew Dubowec, vice-president of strategy and operations at League — which positions itself as a disruptor in the benefits industry — of the company’s reason’s for working with existing players. League’s role as a disruptor, he adds, is more about the experience of using and accessing benefits.
The change will allow League to expand how it offers benefits. “By bringing on additional partners we are able to help employers of all sizes with multiple plan designs, consultative services and an expanded product offering that allows them to build the plan that’s right for them and their employees,” said Michael Serbinis, founder and chief executive officer, in a press release.
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“Whether it’s a simple plan with drug and dental coverage, or complex administrative services-only (ASO) partnerships, these alliances with leaders in the insurance space makes League the ultimate one-stop-shop for employers looking to give their teams the best in health benefits.”
League, had, in fact, already been doing some work with RBC Insurance. “Went to market about a year ago with Royal Bank of Canada Insurance,” says Dubowec.
“We were selling primarily a defined contribution-style of plan, so that was pairing a health saving account with a more narrow drug benefit and then some more ancillary coverages like accident, dental and travel,” he adds, noting the approach had some limitations.
“We worked with a number of insurers, both here in Canada and the U.S., to expand this shelf of available insurance offerings, so that we can act more as a true full-service brokerage, offering the plans that make the most sense for their employees, and even where possible, giving employees the chance to select which health insurance coverage they deem is most relevant for them and their families.”
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In addition to the insurance changes, League is bringing a number of other partners into its health marketplace program, including Headspace Inc., Adidas, Weight Watchers International Inc. and GoodLife Fitness.
As well, League has announced its health concierge project is moving out of the pilot stage. The program allows plan members to engage with health professionals through an instant messenger.
Editor’s note: Additional comments from Dubowec about the existing relationship with RBC Insurance added on Oct. 10 at 12:10 p.m. to clarify the changes.