"The research report findings point to clear opportunities to reduce friction in enrollment and administration and to strengthen education so employers and employees can make more confident decisions about voluntary benefits," said Bridget Bearden, director of membership growth and partnerships, EBRI.

Self-insured employer plans sent the Pittsburgh-based insurer more high-dollar claims.

Fox and Murtagh noted that some states already impose controls on hospitals' prices, and that the controls can take different forms, such as a flat cap on prices or a limit on price increases.

In outlawing surprise billing for emergency services, non-emergency care from out-of-network providers at in-network facilities, and air ambulance services from out-of-network providers, the NSA established an Independent Dispute Resolution (IDR) process to determine out-of-network payment amounts between providers (including those for air ambulance services) or facilities and health plans.