For 10 years, an innovative health plan has transformed access to affordable health coverage for small businesses across Ohio. In Greater Harrison, 76 employers currently utilize the SOCA Benefit Plan through Greater Harrison Chamber of Commerce.
The Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance launched the program in 2016 with Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield. It has since been adopted by four other chamber alliances to expand access to affordable health coverage and stabilize costs for small businesses.
In 2026, the plan expanded to include an employee assistance program for mental health support. Next year, Ohio Farm Bureau announced it will offer eligible OFBF members access to the SOCA Benefit Plan.
Across Ohio:
- More than 94,000 Ohioans are now covered through the plan, representing 7,200 employers and 51,000 employees statewide.
- Since 2016, the program has generated an estimated $1.3 billion in employer savings.
- The average employer covers 13 employees and family members.
“Reaching the 10-year milestone of the SOCA Benefit Plan is a testament to the strength of our partnership with the chamber alliances and the value it continues to deliver to Ohio’s small businesses,” said Jane Peterson, president of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Ohio. “For a decade, this program has helped employers achieve meaningful savings while accessing more stable, predictable health coverage and supporting the health and well-being of their employees. We’re proud to work alongside SOCA and all the alliances to provide solutions that empower small businesses to grow and thrive.”
Launched in May 2016, the SOCA Benefit Plan was created to help sole proprietors and small businesses with 50 or fewer employees better manage healthcare costs by allowing them to band together under a Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangement (MEWA). By pooling their employees into a larger risk group, participating businesses gain access to competitive group rates, flexible benefit designs, and innovative cost-management tools, including Anthem programs that improve health outcomes while lowering expenses. The SOCA Benefit Plan is the largest MEWA in Ohio.
“The SOCA Benefit Plan was created to give small businesses a stronger voice and greater purchasing power in the healthcare market,” said Matt Appenzeller, president and CEO of the Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance. “Over the past decade, we’ve seen firsthand how this program has delivered real savings, expanded access to quality coverage, and helped thousands of small businesses better manage one of their most significant expenses. We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished with Anthem and our chamber partners, and we remain committed to building on this success for Ohio’s small business community.”
Through collaborative solutions and innovative care models, the SOCA Benefit Plan will continue to help small businesses ensure Ohioans have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare.
Employers may learn more about the SOCA Benefit Plan by contacting their health insurance agent or Anthem representative.
About Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Ohio
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is the trade name of Community Insurance Company, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association. ANTHEM is a registered trademark of Anthem Insurance Companies, Inc. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. Additional information about Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Ohio is available at www.anthem.com. Also, follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X at @AnthemBCBS.
About SOCA
Southern Ohio Chamber Alliance has delivered value to Chambers of Commerce and their members since 1993.
About Greater Harrison Chamber
Greater Harrison Chamber was established in 2013 to promote growth and prosperity in one of the fastest growing corners of Hamilton County. The Chamber provides networking, learning and cost-saving opportunities to businesses and organizations in Harrison, Ohio and the surrounding communities.
