The media and insurance industry circles frequently mention private exchanges as an alternative to public marketplace exchanges or traditional insurance plans. A recent survey of employers by Towers Watson and the National Business Group indicated that one-third plan to move their employee benefit plans to private exchanges within the next few years. They may be looking to avoid the headaches and uncertainties involving employee benefits, including spiraling costs and increasing regulations associated with the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

But are private exchanges the best option for all employers and for all health plans, especially for popular dental and vision benefits?

Explore the Options. Options for dental and vision coverage will appeal to employers and employees in different ways. The key is to match set goals to the option that offers the best fit. Most employers rely on brokers and insurance consultants to provide reliable information they can use to make dental and vision benefit decisions. They also expect brokers to educate employees on the choices that will meet their needs and those of their family members.