Reinsurance (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Effects of reinsurance on premiums and benefits
Premiums written and contract deposits, Gross Amount	$ 301,512	$ 287,992
Premiums written and contract deposits, Ceded to Other Companies	5,510	5,768
Premiums written and contract deposits, Assumed from Other Companies	730	945
Premiums written and contract deposits, Net Amount	296,732	283,169
Premiums and contract charges earned, Gross Amount	200,455	190,233
Premiums and contract charges earned, Ceded to Other Companies	5,534	5,769
Premiums and contract charges earned, Assumed from Other Companies	801	986
Premiums and contract charges earned, Net Amount	195,722	185,450
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Gross Amount	147,271	131,240
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Ceded to Other Companies	3,883	12,662
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Assumed from Other Companies	708	935
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Net Amount	$ 144,096	$ 119,513