The conversation unpacks 25 years of changes in employee health benefits, from the rise of self-funded plans to the explosion of digital health solutions. Nicole Belles highlights the shift towards personalized, proactive healthcare, emphasizing how predictive analytics and real-time data are helping employers optimize their benefits strategies.
Reflecting on the evolution of healthcare benefits, she notes, “25 years ago, employees relied on a booklet mailed to their home. Today, technology allows us to choose benefits and receive care at our fingertips.”
The discussion also touches on how employers can stay ahead of emerging healthcare trends and manage costs effectively. Topics range from the impact of GLP-1 agonists on diabetes treatment expenses to how social determinants of health (SDOH) data can shape better benefits strategies.
Nicole’s advice for employers? “Know your data and use it to guide decision-making. Knowledge is power.”
With strategies like telehealth expansion, digital health engagement, and pharmacy plan optimizations, the EHT 2025 report provides actionable insights to help companies balance cost control with meaningful employee health support.
Key Takeaways:
- The Evolution of Benefits: Employers have moved from traditional cafeteria plans to highly personalized benefits, including fertility support and chronic condition management programs.
- Data-Driven Healthcare: Employers now rely on predictive analytics and AI to identify cost-saving opportunities, optimize pharmacy benefits, and proactively address chronic conditions.
- The Digital Transformation: Virtual healthcare, wearable health tracking, and AI-driven medical advancements have reshaped how employees access and manage their health.
- Social Determinants of Health (SDOH): Employers are leveraging data to better support employees through transportation subsidies, childcare assistance, and mental health programs.
- Managing Healthcare Costs: The rising costs of GLP-1 agonists for diabetes highlight the need for employers to reassess pharmacy benefit structures, prior authorization requirements, and evidence-based coverage policies.
Stay in Touch!
- Connect with Nicole Belles on Linkedin
- Connect with our co-hosts Brittany Hardaway and Rachael Baumgartner
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