CalCPA Health is celebrating an anniversary milestone—65 years of providing health and benefit plans to CalCPA member firms, their employees and families. This achievement represents the quality and long-term reliability of the services that CalCPA Health has consistently delivered to members.

Historical Milestones

CalCPA established CalCPA Health in 1959 to provide employee health benefits exclusively to CalCPA member firms, including solo practitioners. The idea of bringing together many employers to leverage bargaining power has proved to be valuable to participating firms. CalCPA Health is operated by its CalCPA members, who tailor plans to meet membership needs.

In 1993, California Assembly Bill 1672 changed the face of health insurance in the state for small businesses. The law put new regulations on businesses with two to 50 eligible employees by mandating guaranteed issue. CalCPA Health recognized flaws in the bill: CalCPA members who were solo practitioners (no W-2 employees) wouldn’t qualify for guaranteed issue under this law, and many insurers would be driven out of the market due to the mandate of guaranteed acceptance.

With these challenges in mind, in 1996, CalCPA Health filed with the California State Department of Insurance for approval to operate as a Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement (MEWA). In 1997, it started its own brand and self-insured CPA ProtectPlus health plans (known as CalCPA Health since 2018). This move ensured solo practitioner small firms and large firms within the CalCPA community could access health insurance plans tailored to their needs.

Comprehensive Health Plans

One of the distinguishing features of CalCPA Health is its diverse range of health plans specifically designed for CPAs and financial professionals. These plans offer coverage options that address general health care needs and specialized services. With more than 40 plans, as well as network options to choose from, CalCPA Health ensures every member can find a plan that fits their needs. These options include:

• Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) Plans: Offering flexibility and a broad choice of health care providers.

• Health Savings Account (HSA) Plans: Allowing members to save for medical expenses on a tax-advantaged basis.

• Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO) Plans: Providing access
  to a specific network of doctors
  and hospitals.

• Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Plans: Emphasizing preventative care and coordinated treatment within a network.

Network Access

CalCPA Health leverages the largest network of doctors, specialists, hospitals, dentists and eye care providers available in California. Partnerships with Anthem Blue Cross, Delta Dental, and Vision Service Plan (VSP) provide CalCPA members with access to a wide range of medical professionals and facilities, ensuring comprehensive care whether in the state, country or internationally.

Tailored for CPAs, Financial Professionals

CalCPA Health has continuously evolved its offerings to meet the changing needs of its members. Whether through preventive care initiatives, wellness programs or mental health services, CalCPA Health is dedicated to supporting CalCPA member firms. 

One way CalCPA Health stays ahead of the health care curve is by offering a wide range of Health Savings Account (HSA) plans. About half of CalCPA Health members are enrolled in HSAs and out of all other carriers in California, it offers the largest selection of HSA plans to its members. Education is key to making sure members use an HSA plan to its fullest, which is why CalCPA Health works closely with member firms to keep them updated on getting the most from these plans.

Looking Ahead

As CalCPA Health celebrates its 65th anniversary, it remains committed to its founding principles while also looking to future health care innovations. The organization continues to explore new ways to enhance service offerings, integrate advanced health technologies, and improve members’ knowledge about health care benefits so they can be the best advocate for themselves and their families. The goal is to remain at the forefront of health care provision for members, ensuring that every member receives the best possible care and support.

For more than six decades, CalCPA Health has stood as a pillar of support for CalCPA members, offering unparalleled health and welfare benefits. Its dedication to high-quality, cost-effective health care has improved the lives of its members, as well as set a standard of excellence in the industry.

CalCPA Health looks forward to continuing its legacy of service, innovation and commitment to the well-being of California’s CPAs and financial professionals.