Officials concerned about Medicaid law conflicts
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(Opinion) Drive more value through consumer-friendly benefits
Providing benefits aimed at meeting diverse needs may provide a more affordable approach to care
By DR. ANA STANKOVIC
With health care costs in 2026 projected to rise, employers may be considering how they can support the health care needs of the workforce while maintaining affordability.
By considering innovative digital solutions aimed at improving access and affordability, employers can create opportunities for individuals to take advantage of resources that may help support their health and well-being. To this end, employers should consider ways to prioritize understanding, greater choice and flexibility when it comes to employee benefit offerings.
The benefit of expanding health care education
Education may play a crucial role in helping employees make more informed decisions about their benefits. Through onboarding sessions, benefit workshops and digital resources, employers can share information about available options, what is included and how services work together to support whole-person health.
Clear communications around enrollment periods, both during onboarding and annual health care open enrollment, may further ensure employees review, update or select benefits as their needs evolve. When employees understand their options and deadlines, they may make more confident choices, maximize value and ultimately experience better health outcomes.
The importance of consumer-oriented benefits
While traditional benefit packages may seem wide-ranging, a one-size-fits-all approach may not work for all employees.
Employers should consider the individual health goals and demographics of their employee pool when selecting plan offerings. Providing benefits aimed at meeting diverse needs may potentially provide a more personalized and affordable approach to care.
Employers may save more money and support better health for the workforce by offering innovative health plans that empower people to shop for needed care like Surest from UnitedHealthcare.
How digital platforms may improve care experience
Insurance and benefits providers are also helping to reduce the administrative burden employers face in expanding benefits options through digital innovation. Some health plans may offer access to integrated digital tools, including virtual care options, member portals, and provider search and cost estimator tools to help support proactive care, reduce logistical hurdles and help promote convenience, accessibility and overall engagement.
Plans may also offer access to additional health and wellness resources designed to complement traditional care options that may help employees better support their health. Some of these may include family-focused resources like prenatal care or caregiving information, fitness and nutrition services, chronic condition management programs and smoking cessation assistance.
For example, UnitedHealthcare recently launched UHC Store, which offers a direct-to-consumer online shopping experience. Members can shop from a range of discounted health and wellness offerings that help meet their personal needs and complement their benefits.
By reimagining benefits with consumer-oriented design, clear education and digital health and wellness solutions, employers may help better support the health of their workforce and maximize benefit offerings.
Dr. Ana Stankovic is the chief medical officer at UnitedHealthcare of New England.
