Reinsurance (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Effects of reinsurance on premiums and benefits
Premiums written and contract deposits, Gross Amount	$ 274,199	$ 266,859	$ 526,264	$ 516,415
Premiums written and contract deposits, Ceded to Other Companies	7,509	7,505	14,912	14,768
Premiums written and contract deposits, Assumed from Other Companies	1,013	935	1,429	1,395
Premiums written and contract deposits, Net Amount	267,703	260,289	512,781	503,042
Premiums and contract charges earned, Gross Amount	178,344	173,166	354,652	345,556
Premiums and contract charges earned, Ceded to Other Companies	7,697	7,676	15,361	15,131
Premiums and contract charges earned, Assumed from Other Companies	914	845	1,428	1,414
Premiums and contract charges earned, Net Amount	171,561	166,335	340,719	331,839
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Gross Amount	122,835	135,685	237,013	244,349
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Ceded to Other Companies	2,718	5,392	4,649	6,780
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Assumed from Other Companies	648	691	1,100	1,293
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Net Amount	$ 120,765	$ 130,984	$ 233,464	$ 238,862