Published September 2019
Whether it’s choosing health care for a multi-generation workforce or helping employees get the most out of their benefits, there’s a lot happening in 2019 that your clients need to be aware of. In this article, you’ll learn about the top five trends in the ever-changing world of health care that may impact your clients’ business in the coming year.
The first five-generation workforce is here
For the first time in history, we have five generations currently active in the workforce. By 2025, Millennials will make up 75% of the workforce. And, as of 2018, there were nearly 9 million Americans ages 65 and older working full- or part-time.
From Baby Boomers to Gen Z-ers, each generation has their own unique set of needs, values, and priorities—even when it comes to their health insurance. Older populations require access to Medicare, prescription assistance, and care management programs. On the other hand, younger generations seek more innovative coverage offerings like fitness benefits, telemedicine, and behavioral health.
Once you can identify the needs of each generation in your client’s workforce, you can choose health care coverage that works accordingly.
Recruiting and retaining talent is more competitive than ever
National unemployment is at an all-time low, which means skilled workers are in higher demand than ever before. And estimates suggest we may not see the end of this labor shortage until 2050.
So how do businesses recruit and retain talent in such a competitive market? By finding out which benefits and offerings they truly value from an employer. According to a recent AICPA survey, Americans would choose a job with workplace benefits over an identical job with a 30% salary increase, but no benefits. Clearly, current and prospective employees recognize the value of benefits. It’s just a matter of identifying the benefits that will keep your talent satisfied.
Americans would choose a job with workplace benefits over an identical job with a 30% salary increase
The number of remote workers is on the rise
Telecommuting is a steadily growing trend in the U.S. workforce. Almost four million employees work from home at least half of the time, according to a recent report by FlexJobs and Global Workplace Analytics. That’s a 115% increase between 2005 and 2015.
With telecommuters making up more and more of today’s workforce, employers can expect to see a shift in insurance needs as well. Remote workers are more likely to move between states, and therefore will need extended service and coverage options. Whereas contract-based employees are more likely to seek insurance independently. There is also a shift towards telemedicine given their mobile and tech-centric lifestyles.
Low insurance literacy comes at a high cost
Only 9% of U.S. employees showed an understanding of basic insurance terms such as premium, deductible, out-of-pocket maximum, and co-insurance. This lack of health insurance literacy often leads to costly mistakes—from choosing higher-cost providers to unnecessary emergency room visits. In 2016, the average emergency room visit rose to $1,917—up 31% from four years earlier, according to the Health Care Cost Institute.
Only 9% of U.S. employees showed an understanding of basic insurance terms
Insurance providers across the country are coming up with solutions to address this problem. With tools like glossaries, dedicated support experts, and translators, you can play a role in helping your client’s workforce get the most out of their benefits.
Employees aren’t getting all the benefits of their benefits.
According to an AICPA Employee Benefits Report, only 28% of employees are confident they’re using their benefits to their fullest potential. And when employees aren’t taking advantage of the services being provided, it costs their employers money. You can help bridge the gap by providing your clients with tools that will help employees gain a full understanding of what their insurance company has to offer. The MyHealthMath tool guides new members through their plan selection process, which helps educate individuals on how to select the best plan for their needs and their budget. Because when your clients’ employees get the most out of their health plans, your clients’ money is well spent. It’s a win-win.
Preparing for your next client meeting? Find additional tools and resources to support your conversation.
To confirm eligibility for any programs or services mentioned in this article as it relates to your specific health plan, please reach out to your account executive or HR benefits team. You may also speak to our member services team at (888)-333-4742 or by sending a secure email. And for plan details and other member resources, log in to the member portal.