Employer Strategies

Just as Apple took on IBM decades ago, a number of healthcare startups are aiming to revolutionize the insurance business, according to Alliant Employee Benefits’ Tom Greene.

When employees change jobs and cash out their plan balance, they often do it over a period of years rather than all at once, according to Retirement Clearinghouse’s Spencer Williams.

Clients are often surprised to learn they can build up a cash reserve through their policies, says adviser Ari Fischman.

In recent years, the number of employees who’ve started contributing to their 401(k) plans or increased their deferrals has grown significantly, suggesting employers’ messages are getting through.

With the market condensing to a few big carriers, such as Anthem, adviser Vinnie Daboul predicts the health insurance system is entering a new phase.

Employers and advisers should review group health plans to make appropriate changes in the event they are subject to these new provisions, says attorney Mary Bauman.

Under the DOL’s new rule, millions of additional employees could face dramatic changes in their benefits and schedules, according to a WorldatWork analysis.

Employee interest highest in emotional and mental components of employers’ well-being programs, Aon Consulting finds.

When it comes to retention, a strong and supportive work environment is more important than benefits, says Tony Bond, chief innovation officer at Great Place to Work.

The company launches Fitbit Group Health, bringing its employer, insurer, weight management and clinical research programs under one umbrella.