News Feed

The Department of Health and Human Services says six states – all led by Democrats – have earned conditional approval to begin enrolling members in their health-insurance exchanges.

With the cost of a private nursing home room running $90,000 a year, many retirees are considering giving all their money to their children in order to qualify for Medicaid. Aside from being a serious financial risk, it shines a bright light on the lack of awareness of long-term care insurance.

As the Supreme Court looks at same-sex marriage cases next year, one legal expert says “there are, arguably, more complications for plan sponsors if DOMA goes away.”

While adoption of consumer-driven health plans by employers continues to increase, the perceived risk of CDHP’s high deductibles still makes employees hesitant to switch from the traditional PPO. However, such fears may be unfounded, according to Change Healthcare.

EBA Contributor Andrew Torelli was shocked to hear health care statistics recently that makes him rethink what the real health care crises in this country are and how to properly address them.

A recent Health Affairs study that concludes the 10 modifiable health risks only connect to about 20% of health care spending. Thus, says guest blogger Linda K. Riddell, a realistic benefits manager should acknowledge that the most successful wellness program may only have a limited impact.

The company’s holiday office party is typically one of the best occasions for employees to come together. Unfortunately, however, it’s also an event that can at times bring out the worst in some attendees, which can lead to animosity or even lawsuits. [Images: Thinkstock]

Employee recognition doesn't have to break the bank. Dr. Bob Nelson, Ph.D., author of 1501 Ways to Reward Employees (Workman Publishing, 2012), offers the following low-cost ways to reward or recognize employees this holiday season. For more with Dr. Bob Nelson be sure to read the January issue of EBN.

It takes top-down initiative and commitment to guarantee successful population health management, says Katherine Meacham, vice president of account management for HealthFitness. Here Meacham outlines 10 leadership keys for building and sustaining a culture of health. (Images: Thinkstock)

Under health care exchanges, many employees will be selecting benefits previously decided by an employer — providing a chance for brokers and consultants to show their true value, said a panel of experts at the Workplace Benefits Transitions conference December 5.