Most employer groups negotiated 12-month rates for 1998 early last year and are planning now for 1999.

Insurers say that after a slow start, sales to large employer groups are beginning to take off.

Indications of similar increases were reported by employer groups across the country as many companies opened negotiations with health insurers on rates for 2003.

It joined an employer group that negotiated with different insurance companies offering a variety of plans.

While each employer purchasing group operates differently, they share many characteristics.

About 200,000 nursing home insurance policies have already been sold to individuals, and now several insurers are marketing to employer groups.

Similar increases were expected by employer groups as many companies opened negotiations with health insurers.

Several employer groups opposed the bill as too restrictive on benefit policies.

But many policy analysts and employer groups want Medicare to do more.

The provision was included at the request of employer groups wanting more flexibility.