New roles for employers

Set the goal of increasing health value, not minimizing health benefit costs

Set new expectations for health plans, including self-insured plans

•  Choose plans that demonstrate excellence in playing the roles described for them. (note: hyperlink to Health Plan table above)
•  Select plans and plan administrators based on health results, not administrative convenience

Provide for health plan continuity for employees, rather than plan churning

•  Align interests by encouraging long-term relationships between the plan and subscribers

Enhance provider competition on results

•  Expect demonstrated excellence from all providers involved in employee care
•  Collaborate with other employers in advancing value-based competition

Support and motivate employees in making good health choices and in managing their own health

•  Offer encouragement, incentives, and support to employees in managing their health
•  Provide independent information and advising services to employees to supplement other sources
•  Offer health plan structures that provide good value and encourage saving for long-term health needs

Find ways to expand insurance coverage and advocate reform of the insurance system

•  Create collaborative vehicles with other employers to offer group insurance coverage to employees or affiliated individuals not currently part of the employer’s health plan
•  Support insurance reform that levels the playing field among employers

Measure and hold employee benefit staff accountable for the company’s health value

•  Health benefits must ultimately be a senior management responsibility, with staff responsible for results