health care plan Archives - Word on Benefits

How Gender Inclusivity Can Benefit Plan Sponsors and Members

Robbie Hartman, CEBS

26 Aug 202124 Aug 2021

Increasingly, U.S. and Canadian plan sponsors are offering gender affirmation and gender reassignment benefits as a way to attract and retain top talent, improve mental health outcomes, and foster a diverse and inclusive workforce. “Above all, [these benefits are] about removing barriers […]

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How Do Multiemployer Plans Claim COBRA Premium Assistance Credit?

Jenny Gartman, CEBS

09 Jun 202108 Jun 2021

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued Notice 2021-31 which provides guidance for multiemployer plans and plan administrators regarding the new credit available to them for providing continuation health coverage to certain individuals under COBRA. We summarized the COBRA changes under American […]

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Legal and Practical Considerations for Virtual Health Care in Canada

Alyssa Hodder

19 May 202118 May 2021

There’s no question that the pandemic has accelerated the adoption of virtual health care in Canada, but we’re now learning that it’s not just a transitional measure. A panel at our recent virtual conference, Today’s Legal and Legislative Landscape Across Canada, explored […]

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Health Care Benefits: 20 Benchmarking Considerations for Your Plan

Justin Held, CEBS

31 Mar 202130 Mar 2021

Health care benefits remain a critical part of the relationship between employers and workers, especially during these times of rapid change and uncertainty. In addition to serving as an important financial safety net, these benefits act as a recruitment and retention tool. […]

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Meeting the Benefit Needs of Your LGBTQ+ Plan Members

Robbie Hartman, CEBS

15 Feb 202115 Feb 2021

Increasing numbers of people are identifying as LGBTQ+, particularly among younger generations now entering workplaces, but their needs are often underserved in the design and administration of benefit plans. Employers and plan sponsors that proactively make their plans more inclusive—from enrollment forms […]

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21 Ways Employers Are Combating Escalating Health Care Costs in 2021

Justin Held, CEBS

27 Jan 202126 Jan 2021

Over the next ten years, health care spending in the United States is projected to increase at an annual rate of 5.4%. In response to the cost escalation, plan sponsors in corporate, multiemployer and public employer environments are looking for ways to […]