General Dynamics Information Technology's ViPS, part of its Health IT solutions business sector, has received a $80.3m contract for around four years to support the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) early retiree reinsurance program (ERRP).

The company’s Health IT Solutions sector will develop and deploy ERRP application and payment systems, and also support all ERRP operational departments.

As per the contract, the company is responsible for overall software design, development and business application support, which includes a public website and educational outreach programs, data center infrastructure and administration.

In addition, the Health IT Solutions sector will support HHS’ Office of Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight (OCIIO), administrator of ERRP program. Under the program, employers may receive 80% reimbursement for medical claims for retirees age 55 and older who are not yet eligible for Medicare.

General Dynamics Information Technology vice president and general manager of Health IT Solutions Art Lehrer said that information technology will play an instrumental role in implementing healthcare reform and ERRP is an efficient example of how IT can support the healthcare system and represents one of a major initiative assigned to HHS under the new legislation.