The state of Nebraska is switching health care providers, in a move that will save an estimated $8 million a year.

Department of Administrative Services Director Carlos Castillo said Wednesday that the change to United Health Care was based on the expected yearly savings for the state and its employees. Nebraska has been a Blue Cross/Blue Shield client for at least 25 years.

Castillo says United Health Care has established a large network in Nebraska, similar to Blue Cross/Blue Shield, so the vast majority of employees will see no disruption in their services. He says it's too soon to know the exact savings for employees.

The plans cover approximately 30,000 state employees and dependents. The new agreement will take effect July 1, once the contract is finalized.