How does one go about receiving these emails?
IDK. Maybe by becoming certified/authorized to sell on the exchange. Though I suppose there might be other ways (there’s a phone number and email address at the bottom).
Why were they the original benchmark?
IDK. Possibly because they had the biggest network and might have been the largest insurer (Oxford/UHC).
Their QHP network is (very) different than their EP network?
QHP network is the Oxford Metro network IINM. EP and Medicaid is the Community network. My evidence is extremely anecdotal based on local PCPs and client feedback.
Why did they significantly raise their premiums (when others haven't)? How do you know a lot of folks who signed up earlier kept them as their premiums rose?
I don’t know that they significantly raised their premiums. On the contrary, their premiums have been amongst the highest since the inception of the NYS exchange (I’ve contended that it was due to their experience, while other players were underpricing (and we’ve seen failures)). The Metro network was introduced in order to contain costs.
Fidelis is indeed the lowest cost provider WITH A DECENT NETWORK. But I've found their network to be quite lacking and poor compared to United and to HealthFirst.
FTFY.
As for the network, which counties are you comparing, and are you talking QHP or Medicaid/EP? In NYC there’s no comparison, it’s hands down Fidelis (for QHP). The only insurer with a (possibility) better network is Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield (I am talking NYC) and their premiums are significantly higher than Fidelis (FWIW, Empire used to be non-profit years ago, and then switched. Fidelis is non-profit).
That really isn't that odd. EP (and Medicaid) plans all cost the same regardless of which carrier you choose. As such cost is a non-factor so consumers will simply choose the one with the best networks that works for them, with inertia being a factor.
FTFY.