Associated Subcontractors of Massachusetts (ASM) recently received certification from the state’s Division of Insurance as a "group health insurance purchasing cooperative," effective July 1.

This will enable ASM to offer health insurance from nationally recognized insurance carriers at the lowest rates possible for its eligible members. The new "ASM Health Insurance Coop" will also offer a wellness program designed to promote healthy lifestyle choices and prevent costly expenses in the future.

ASM member businesses with 50 or fewer full-time employees (excluding any workers covered by a union health plan), will qualify for benefits through the newly formed cooperative. The wellness program, however, will be available to all interested members regardless of size. 

ASM is the third health purchasing group to be approved under legislation signed by Gov. Deval Patrick in 2010. ASM joins the Retailers Association of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Association of Chambers of Commerce Executives, which were approved in January. ASM developed the cooperative in collaboration with TGA Cross Insurance of Wakefield, who will act as managing broker and administrator of the program. FIVI Health Networks of Boston will provide the wellness program, which will be easily accessible via an online portal.

"We are very excited to offer an affordable health insurance alternative to our members. As president it has been my priority to improve and extend cost effective offerings to our small business members," said ASM President David G. Cannistraro. "After more than a year of planning and development, it is with great pleasure that we will be able to offer this program to our members, to help defray one of the most significant costs of running a business."