Reinsurance (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Effects of reinsurance on premiums and benefits
Premiums written and contract deposits, Gross Amount	$ 266,437	$ 252,065
Premiums written and contract deposits, Ceded to Other Companies	6,631	7,403
Premiums written and contract deposits, Assumed from Other Companies	469	416
Premiums written and contract deposits, Net Amount	260,275	245,078
Premiums and contract charges earned, Gross Amount	181,733	176,308
Premiums and contract charges earned, Ceded to Other Companies	6,893	7,664
Premiums and contract charges earned, Assumed from Other Companies	563	514
Premiums and contract charges earned, Net Amount	175,403	169,158
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Gross Amount	114,877	114,178
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Ceded to Other Companies	3,445	1,931
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Assumed from Other Companies	556	452
Benefits, claims and settlement expenses, Net Amount	$ 111,988	$ 112,699