The National Labor Office focused on providing health needs for unions

Merrilee Logue, the Executive Director of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield National Labor Office (NLO), joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the NLO, her journey to leading the union-focused organization and how they ensure it provides the best solutions for all union members.

The NLO operates as a liaison on behalf of Blue Cross and Blue Shield, which works to provide the services needed by unions across the nation. Their Washington D.C. headquarters works with legislators to develop quality healthcare laws and union leaders to develop the best healthcare solutions for their members. The organization's national headquarters serves the International Union offices, and the NLO’s local plans take care of the needs of the Local offices.

Logue began her journey with unions working within the Actor’s Equity Association on Broadway, assisting with the business's day-to-day operations, including healthcare. She said this stop helped lead her along her path to her current role. Today, Logue utilizes her degrees in education to educate and inform union members on the importance of quality health benefits, ensuring they are ready with the answers they need.

Much of the work done by the NLO relies on building relationships with union leaders and members. Logue said these relationships are the core for their business to operate successfully. She spoke on the increasing rate of women joining the trades and the importance of the NLO’s 14 strategic alliances providing the best services possible for all union members. Much of their relationship-building takes place at labor conferences and union meetings, allowing for the organization to work directly with union members. 

Listen to the show above for more on the NLO, and click the link here.