Las Vegas, NV – June 26, 2024 – Teachers Health Trust (THT), the self-funded insurer for over 17,000 Clark County educators and their dependents, proudly announces its successful repayment of a $35 million advance to the Clark County School District (CCSD), ahead of the June 30, 2024, deadline.
“The successful resolution of our debt is a testament to the dedication and collaborative efforts of all involved,” said Tom Zumtobel, CEO of Teachers Health Trust. “Without this advance from CCSD and the commitment of our community providers, this remarkable recovery would not have been possible. As a product of the Clark County School District, I know firsthand the significant impact teachers have on our community. Education is fundamental to our community’s success, and we remain committed to continuously improving the value that Teachers Health Trust offers to the educators we serve.”
Background
THT faced significant financial challenges from 2015-2021 stemming from various factors, including mounting administrative costs, frozen employer contributions, and inflated contract rates with providers. These challenges culminated in an estimated debt burden of $66 million, prompting THT to seek solutions to ensure its financial sustainability and ability to continue serving educators effectively.
Upon taking the helm in 2021, CEO Tom Zumtobel launched a comprehensive strategy to pay off debts and rebuild THT’s financial stability. In addition to negotiating the $35 million advance with CCSD, this strategy involved installing new leadership, restructuring THT’s Board of Trustees to include two community representatives, lowering administrative costs, and strengthening discounts with network medical providers.
CCSD Provided Advanced Premium Contributions to THT
Since receiving the advance from CCSD in June of 2021, THT has remained committed to accountability and transparency as were the terms in the agreement with CCSD. THT has met all standards as set by the agreement, including providing monthly financial reports, claims reports, and annual third-party audits to CCSD leadership. Furthermore, THT Trustees and Leadership agree that these practices are meaningful and will continue to provide regular and transparent reporting to CCSD even after the repayment is complete. The most recent audit (for the period July 1, 2022, through June 30, 2023) was also emailed to all primary account holders and placed on the THT website (www.ththealth.org).
During recent teacher contract negotiation cycles, THT and its members benefited significantly from increased employer contributions negotiated by the Clark County Education Association (CCEA). Particularly noteworthy is the fact due to the negotiated increases, CCSD educators will experience no premium increases for the second consecutive year.
THT Financially Stable, Continues to Improve Health Care for Educators
Repaying this advance marks a significant milestone for THT, symbolizing its commitment to fiscal responsibility and potential to regain status as one of Nevada’s premier health plans. With its financial obligations settled and a solid foundation in place, THT has already shifted to proactively engaging with medical providers who are devoted to improving healthcare access for educators in Clark County.
“As someone who has witnessed both the historical challenges and triumphs of THT, I am deeply moved by THT’s renewed commitment to supporting our educators,” said Moises Denis, former Nevada State Senator. “This achievement ensures that our teachers, who shape the future of our children, will continue to see improvements in their healthcare. It’s a proud moment for all of us who believe in the power of education and community.”
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