Brokers are concerned about the future of the U.S. health caresystem. They need to understand the changes coming their way sothey can work with employers and carriers to design the best planspossible for their clients. Susan Blumenthal, former assistantsurgeon general and a leading health expert, gave brokers adetailed overview of advances in medicine, science and technologythat can improve health in the U.S. during her presentation, “Howto breathe new life into the health care system,” at the 15thannual BenefitsPRO Broker Expo, April 3, in Miami, Florida.

“The tectonic plates of health care are shifting,” Blumenthalsaid, highlighting Amazon's entrance into the space with “Haven,”the company's joint venture with Berkshire Hathaway and JP MorganChase, with the goal of improving health care for the 1.2 millionemployees of the three businesses. The plan is intended to shelterthe employees from insurance hassles and go-betweens and to lowerthe costs of care while increasing transparency. “Anotherby-product may be developing health care models that otherbusinesses can use in the U.S.,” she said. “And while you [brokers]are not the target you could be affected.”