(Des Moines, IA) -- A health care insurance company's agreed to cease doing business in the state. The Iowa Insurance Division says Trinity Healthshare Inc, also known as Sharity Ministries, was not authorized to sell the products. Investigators also say the company used unfair or deceptive practices.
“While Trinity has denied the allegations, it has agreed to cease operations in Iowa. Trinity will continue to facilitate sharing among current Iowa members until June 30, 2021, so that members have sufficient time to find alternative options,” Iowa Insurance Division spokesman Chance McElhaney said. “Consumers who have purchased these products are eligible for the ACA special enrollment period open now through May 15. Consumers are encouraged to speak with licensed insurance agents who can help them determine what options may be available to them.”
According to the statement of charges, Respondent Trinity, purportedly operated as a health care sharing ministry, acted as an unauthorized insurer by offering health care insurance products to Iowa consumers which were not approved for sale in Iowa. It is alleged that Aliera marketed, offered, sold, and administered these plans on behalf of Trinity without being appropriately licensed.
The Iowa Insurance Division claims both Aliera and Trinity used unfair methods of competition and unfair or deceptive acts or practices in the offer and sale of these health care products.