UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D. C. 20549

FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported):  April 1, 2011

INDEPENDENCE HOLDING COMPANY

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Registrant's telephone number, including area code:  (203) 358-8000

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

[ ] Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

[ ] Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240a-12)

[ ] Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

[ ] Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13a-4(c))

Item 5.02

Election of Director.

(a)

On April 1, 2011, the Board of Directors of Independence Holding Company (“IHC”) elected Mr. David T. Kettig as a director.  There are no understandings or arrangements between Mr. Kettig and any other person pursuant to which Mr. Kettig was elected to serve as a director of IHC.  Mr. Kettig is the Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice President of IHC and his compensation is disclosed in IHC’s annual proxy statement. There is no other relationship between Mr. Kettig and IHC or any of its subsidiaries that would require disclosure pursuant to Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K.  

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.