When the System Hits Home – A Personal Look at MSK, Pain, and the Benefits Gap

What happens when the people responsible for designing and advising on employee health plans find themselves on the other side—as patients navigating the very system they help build?

In this powerful closing keynote, top benefits advisors and an industry expert share their personal experiences facing musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions—some of the most debilitating and costly issues in today's workforce. Despite their insider knowledge, they still encountered the same pain, delays, financial stress, and insurance obstacles as any plan member would.

Through these real-life stories, attendees will gain a firsthand look at the challenges of navigating MSK care and learn how these experiences reshaped their views on benefit design, pain management, and patient advocacy. From understanding the critical role of cash-pay options to uncovering flaws in access and coverage, this session offers practical takeaways for employers, brokers, and benefit leaders committed to closing the gap between plan design and patient experience.

Prepare to leave inspired, challenged—and more informed—about what it truly means to walk in your employees' shoes.