Well, the bad news is that health care "reform" for lack of a better word remains a hot topic. Even among your average, everyday, out-of-touch American consumer. Like it or not, this isn't going away. No matter how badly the good ole' boys in Congress screw this up.
But the good news is that those consumers trust you more than anyone else. Certainly more than me (if you can believe that).
According to the numbers from the latest study out of Metlife (where they're constantly churning out interesting data), a whopping 75 percent of individuals and 83 percent of employers are paying pretty close attention to the Beltway suits arguing over health care.
Since increased awareness is always the first step when it comes to educating employers (and employees), this is also good news for brokers, too. Half your job's done before you even set foot in the conference room.
Even better, nearly 60 percent of larger employers are relying on their brokers (or consultants) for information about the health care reform debate. (Industry publications, such as yours truly, rank third, at around 37 percent.)
You don't need me to remind you (once again) what an incredible opportunity this is for brokers to step up and fill that advisory role like never before. You're the expert. You've earned their trust (more so than even the New York Times or CNN). So what are you waiting for? Your competitor to do it for you?
Quick aside: It's also interesting to note this debate is spiraling into a classic case of the haves and have-nots. According to Metlife's study, more than 60 percent of those without health insurance favor some type of reform (even if it ends up doing more harm than good.) Meanwhile, only around 40 percent of those with coverage favor reform.
Check out some of the numbers below. Speaking of which, make sure you fill out our own health care survey online. Hit us up over at www.BenefitsSellingMag.com/HealthCareSurvey.
