Benefits Think

Affordable Care Act’s loopholes and inefficiencies are creating losses among carriers and they, in turn, are pressing advisers, says Sally Pipes, president and CEO of the Pacific Research Institute.

From the Affordable Care Act to the EEOC’s retaliation guidance, the world of benefits law is always rapidly evolving, says lawyer Richard Meneghello.

The key issue for benefit plan sponsors in Zubik v. Burwell is whether the Affordable Care Act’s contraceptive-coverage mandate requirements and its accommodation violate the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

With carriers such as Anthem/BCBS cutting commissions and the government continuing to throw down regulatory hurdles, these four steps can help agencies succeed in an ever-more demanding environment.

Employers can take immediate steps to help hospitals ensure that employees, dependents — and all patients — are in better shape after they leave the hospital than when they went in.

Accommodating employees who are experiencing disabling illnesses or injuries can help them work more comfortably, boost output and minimize absences.

When it comes to well-being programs, game mechanics are about understanding why, rather than now, employees make the choices they do.

Benefit agencies often thrive by hiring more salespeople, but this can undercut the firm’s long-term viability, says adviser Eric Silverman.

While employers debate the ROI of wellness programs, a more pressing concern is the cost of poor workplace health. New research shows lost productivity due to employee comes with a huge price tag.

Faced with rising insurance premiums, employees are poised to change the rules of the game by demanding cost transparency and quality information, says adviser Mark Gaunya.