Cost-Containment

There are multiple strategies benefits advisors and employers can deploy to address the physician gap and reduce downstream spend while delivering a better and more enjoyable employee experience.

Instead of jumping to GLP-1 drugs that can be costly, a step therapy approach guides patients by offering individualized care with behavioral changes, followed by mental health support and Gen 1 anti-obesity meds.

When Diana Miller moved from Colombia to the United States, she was seeking opportunity and success. She has carried that same perspective and drive into her role as a benefits advisor. 

Congress is considering legislation that would equalize payments for certain services regardless of where they are provided, but for now, patients need to have doctors send the order to a commercial lab like Labcorp or Quest.

Heading into the new year, perceived coverage gaps, flexibility, and affordability receive more attention as companies weigh prioritizing value versus shifting costs. 

The Choose Medicare Act, which has been introduced in Congress, would increase health coverage by 3.6 million people, according to the Urban Institute, which conducted a study on the new coverage and its cost effects.

The annual contribution limit for flexible spending accounts will rise to $3,200 in 2024, an increase of $150 from this year, the IRS recently announced.

Since the IRS announced the moratorium on new ERC claims in September, the agency has now released new guidelines for small employers that wish to cancel their claim if they have doubts about its legitimacy.