Bruce Shutan

For three benefits industry leaders who lost a loved one, calls to action included a need for advocacy, medical power of attorney and getting care wishes in writing.

Without the right contractual terms in place, hidden costs may mar pooled purchasing power at the expense of employer clients.

Leveraging their healthcare knowledge and industry connections eased the family burden associated with navigating through end-of-life care.

From near fisticuffs with a charge nurse to a patient-discharge threat over an MRI refusal, hospital missteps laid bare end-of-life treatment for family caregivers.

In acknowledging the lethargy, temptation and sadness that accompanied their grieving process, several benefit leaders drew strength from others and self-care.

Stepping away from the office with the support of a boss to grieve may help expedite the healing process.

Several employee benefit leaders share their harrowing tales of caregiving and patient advocacy that went awry, reshaping their views on advising.

Health Rosetta's nonprofit Nautilus Health Institute provides battle-tested resources for procurement, contracting and data use in group health plans.

Benefit brokers and advisers could face legal scrutiny if they fail to disclose indirect compensation and are advised to vet TPA contracts more carefully.

Benefit advisers who transitioned to healthcare from the retirement space are bullish about the future of price transparency and fee disclosure.