Perspective: The role of employers in improving the value and cost of US health benefits

As the US health care debate intensifies, employers are re-examining their role in sponsoring coverage. Rising health plan costs, administrative burdens and employee dissatisfaction with offerings have employers asking hard questions: What's the value in offering health benefits? Would a different approach offer better cost and strategic value? This Perspective examines the evolving answers to these questions, outlines public policy and marketplace changes needed for any major shift away from employer-based coverage, and offers practical considerations for employers planning near-term change.  (Perspective, 24 Jan 2008, 8 pages)

• Full Perspective (PDF)

---