Salina Tech Board Backs Legal Effort as Staff Report Widespread Unpaid Insurance Claims

Salina Area Technical College President and CEO Dr. Gregory A. Nichols sent an email to staff outlining steps the college plans to take regarding an ongoing situation connected to the school’s former insurance carrier.

In the email, Nichols said the board became aware of the situation involving Blackhawk after the college switched brokers. He wrote that, until recently, “many of us were not aware” of the scope of challenges employees were experiencing. Staff have reported the premiums paid were in the mid-hundreds of thousands of dollars, with hundreds of claims still outstanding.

The email was sent out after a board meeting where faculty and staff were invited to share their concerns.

Board action

Nichols said a group of employees requested support from the board regarding issues tied to the former insurance company. He wrote that he brought the request to the board, and that the board voted to support legal efforts to hold the carrier accountable. Nichols added that employees may be asked to meet with an attorney as the college works to determine the breadth of the situation.

Potential law enforcement contact

According to the email, the administration will also work to contact law enforcement agencies to determine whether a criminal case is warranted. Nichols said the college will continue reaching out to healthcare providers to make them aware of the college’s intent to pursue a remedy, noting the process may take time.

Request to employees (coverage period: Oct. 1, 2024 – Sept. 30, 2025)

Nichols said the board is requesting that each insured employee who was covered during that period:

review their healthcare experiences, and

gather information related to claims within those dates.

Financial support to be determined

Nichols wrote that a date will be communicated for when the board will decide what level of financial support it can provide to employees. He said the board is supportive of employees, has consulted with the board’s attorney, and will remain in conversation about next steps.

Statement to Salina311

Nichols provided the following statement to Salina311:

“The College confirms it is aware of concerns involving Blackhawk (aka 5 Rivers/Array Health), its former insurance carrier, related to unpaid healthcare claims.

The administration is actively reviewing the situation and evaluating available options, including consultation with legal counsel. The Board has voted to support appropriate legal efforts to seek resolution and accountability.

At this time, the College is gathering information to fully understand the scope of the issue. Officials emphasize their commitment to addressing the matter responsibly and working toward a fair outcome for those affected.”