Amanda Schiavo

Industry consolidation has been on the rise as the role of private-equity and other financial institution-backed buyers expands.

“It does bring to life the effect of an economic downturn and the results that will have in the health benefits space,” says David Henka, CEO of ActiveRADAR.

The exterminator service provider’s parent company has launched a debt repayment benefit program.

The coronavirus card will include real-time updates from the Centers for Disease Control regarding support and testing.

HR wants to know the best allocation for healthcare spending is in a way that employees value and will have the highest impact.

Darden Restaurants had been working on this policy for some time, but rolled it out faster due to concerns over COVID-19.

The newly combined “powerhouse” will be a rival for Marsh & McLennan, which had been the top name in that sector in terms of revenue.

“We need to build health plans that incentivize employees to make better healthcare choices based on quality,” Jim Blachek, CEO of Dynamic Benefit Solutions, says.

Advanced care planning is an opportunity for advisers to address caregiving with clients and boost the value this benefit brings to employers.

To convince employer clients and prospects of the merits of DPC, advisers must present it in a way that offers a solution to control the total cost of care.

“Given the demographic trends we are seeing, today’s workforce will continue to face the challenges of caregiving,” says Scott White, vice president of global people operations and rewards at Levi Strauss.

“The financial burden of student loans is a major reason fewer employees are taking advantage of 401(k) programs,” Scott Thompson, CEO of Tuition.io, says.

One of these snags is taxation on clients’ retirement income, which can hurt their cash flow.

“We expect a lot of our people. We expect them to work hard and we have an obligation to take care of them,” says Chief Operating Officer Sonia Menon.

The company will work to integrate MindSciences’ app-based mindfulness programs into its benefits offerings.

“It is so critical to have equality in your benefits,” CEO Kate Ryder says.

Dog friendly policies and benefits specific to pet ownership needs are a unique way for employers to attract and retain talent.

About 78% of employees with high financial stress say it is a distraction at work.

HR leaders will be able to use data to address engagement needs and make meaningful changes for their businesses.

“Employers are looking to invest in the strategic side of HR,” says Dan Staley, HR technology leader with PwC.