News/Blog

Open enrollment provides a fantastic opportunity for organizations to combat turnover—by proving they have gone above and beyond to support their employees with top-tier benefits offerings. Statistics reaffirm that open enrollment is the right time to demonstrate support for employees and educate them about their benefits. Employees are interested in flexible benefit offerings, such as…

Employers have been trying to address many of the same benefits challenges for the last few years, such as rising health care costs and competitive compensation. Some employers have responded to these challenges by attempting to meet employee demands, but by and large, most employers still struggle to find adequate solutions. These challenges are likely…

In the competitive and rapidly evolving field of engineering, businesses face unique challenges in maintaining profitability and achieving long-term success. As we navigate 2024, three key areas demand the attention of engineering company leaders: technological advancements and innovation, talent acquisition and retention, and sustainable business practices. Central to addressing these challenges is the strategic management…

The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) requires employers covered by the law to provide eligible employees unpaid, job-protected leave for qualifying reasons. Covered Employers The following employers are covered by the FMLA: Public agencies, including federal, state and local governments; Local educational agencies, including public and private elementary and secondary schools and public…

Health care spending in the United States has been trending upward for decades, and analysts at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) predict that total employer spending this year will increase by 5.8% to $1.3 trillion. Furthermore, spending per participant will increase by 6% to $7,459. However, due to increased health care expenses…

The upcoming 2024 U.S. election is poised to significantly influence the healthcare and health insurance industries, as healthcare remains a pivotal issue for voters and policymakers alike. The election’s outcome will shape policies that determine how Americans access and pay for healthcare, with profound implications for costs, coverage, and the overall system. Potential Policy Shifts…

A Heavy Issue As renewal season approaches, employers are reexamining their health insurance options, with a significant focus on GLP-1 coverage. The popularity of GLP-1 medications is surging, fueled by extensive media attention on their weight-loss benefits. While these drugs are often seen as a quick solution, there is a significant amount of misinformation about…

Tips for Retaining Employees in 2024 Around 27% of U.S. workers quit their jobs in 2023, which, according to a common turnover calculation, cost employers nearly a trillion dollars to replace. Unfortunately, turnover is expected to climb this year, and labor experts predict another form of the “Great Resignation” to take place as workers choose…

PCORI Fees Due July 31, 2024 The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires health insurance issuers and self-insured plan sponsors to pay Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute fees (PCORI fees). The fees are reported and paid annually using IRS Form 720, the Quarterly Federal Excise Tax Return. Form 720 and full payment of the PCORI fees are…

Mental Health in America and How to Get Help More than half of adults in the United States will experience mental illness—which refers to a variety of conditions that affect one’s mood, behavior, feelings or thinking—at some point in their life. Mental illnesses can occur occasionally, while others are chronic. Common mental illnesses include anxiety,…