| What are we attempting to offer? |
- A member-owned and member-governed organization
- Health care information and education relevant to the agriculture industry
- Assisting individuals to make healthier decisions by providing wellness information and wellness plans
- Offering affordable health insurance options
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| Why a cooperative? |
Cooperatives combine the interest of the consumer with the interest of the producer or service provider to meet the needs of the consumer-owner.
Minnesota is the #1 co-op state in the nation and our rural communities have historically used the cooperative model to solve many of the state’s problems. Telecommunications, electrification and grain marketing are examples of cooperatives at work.
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| Who is involved in this effort? |
The following three cooperatives have been working together
for the past four years to create an innovative and viable solution:
- Cooperative Network in Saint Paul, the Minnesota-Wisconsin cooperative trade association representing
cooperatives in all industries
- United Farmers Cooperative (UFC), an agricultural supply cooperative headquartered in Winthrop
- AgStar Financial Services, an agricultural financial services cooperative headquartered in Mankato
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| Will the national health care bill affect 40 Square’s implementation? |
We do not anticipate any conflicts with the national health care bill passed by Congress. The cooperative will abide by all rules and regulations, as well as implement any measures necessary to comply with federal law.
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| What are the costs involved with 40 Square? |
As with many cooperatives, a membership fee will be required to join 40 Square. This will not only support the cooperative’s operations, but assist in the financial stability of the cooperative as a whole.
Because Cooperative Network members pay dues to support this project, Cooperative Network members will receive a substantial membership discount.
40 Square members will have the option of two different levels of affordable insurance coverage plans and one limited benefit plan. Because we are still working with state regulators, we are unable to share plan details and costs. This information will be made available when the proper state approvals have been obtained.
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| When will 40 Square Cooperative Solutions begin? |
Our actual launch date depends upon proper state approval of necessary contracts and plan application. Further information, including membership enrollment, will be posted on this site, when available. |
