In November 2021, REALTOR® Patti Stone found herself without health insurance for the first time in many years…and then she found “truly a godsend” in the REALhealth and Wellness Insurance program offered as a member benefit of the Alabama Association of REALTORS®. Stone, an associate broker with Newcastle Home Sales, Inc., in Pelham, was previously covered by her husband’s group health insurance through his employer. “When my husband retired, health insurance went away,” Stone explained. COBRA coverage was available, but she found it too expensive.

Stone read about REALhealth in the AAR newsletter. “I contacted BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama, and I was immediately able to reactivate my insurance. Two months later, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. The REALhealth program truly was a godsend, and it’s all because AAR is forward-thinking and realized that REALTORS®, many of whom are independent contractors like me, need insurance.” 

Stone underwent a mastectomy and is doing well today. Through the REALhealth and Wellness program, she now has medical coverage, along with dental and vision coverage. She will turn 65 this month and is exploring a Medicare supplement policy. 

An AAR member since 1995, Stone cites attending meetings and her involvement at the state and local levels as helping her keep abreast of information. “Because of the strength of our membership,” she said, “we are able to have good, affordable health insurance with a good company. I’ve always had BlueCross BlueShield and felt comfortable because of their reputation.”

An AAR member benefit since 2019, the REALhealth and Wellness program offers an array of medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for members, their spouses, and families. The program also offers guaranteed issue policies for accident, critical illness, and whole life insurance. 

• To be eligible for dental, vision, and other ancillary products you must be an AAR member or affiliate member who has an NAR membership number (NRDS number).
• To be eligible for health insurance, you must be an AAR member or affiliate member who has an NAR membership number (NRDS number) and a company with one or more bona fide employee(s).

Managed by Alliance Insurance Group, the program allows members to choose products individually. If you choose not to enroll in health care coverage, you may still enroll in dental or vision coverage.

Stone cautioned that “being without health insurance is a real eye-opener.  Knowing I have this brings peace of mind.”

For more information about AAR’s REALhealth and Wellness insurance program, visit REALhealth on our website.