Sponsored by Northern Illinois Health Plan |
October 2009 Issue |
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E to E provides information from a business perspective that will educate regional employers about significant healthcare issues to help them make decisions benefiting their organizations and employees. | ||
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ContentsEnrollment tips to enhance employee communication |
At Northern Illinois Health Plan, we constantly monitor issues that impact our employers and their respective workforces. This month we are reporting on several topics that could affect you. A reminder that NIHP is here to discuss and help you create a healthcare benefits plan that fits your organization. Contact us with any questions. ENROLLMENT TIPS TO ENHANCE EMPLOYEE COMMUNICATIONSOpen enrollment is upon us. Though it is usually a hectic time for businesses, this year's challenging economy may further complicate this particular benefits "season." The result? Your employee messaging may be more important…and even more difficult, if your work force takes on greater responsibility for costs and selection. Though it may be tempting, avoid the urge to go totally electronic. Yes, it's easy. But it's not nearly as effective. When messages are complicated, and impacted by a myriad of variables, take the time to meet face-to-face. The most effective benefits communications incorporate multiple communications channels. If you want some timely tips customized to your unique strategies, contact NIHP. We'd be happy to help as you rollout your benefits for the coming year. Further Reading:
Guide your employees with solid open enrollment communication
Have you scheduled benefits open enrollment meetings?
How to overcome the most common open enrollment barriers H1N1 FLU IMMUNIZATION UPDATEEarlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced their desire to immunize at least half the U.S. population against the H1N1 virus. They purchased approximately 250 million doses of the vaccine to facilitate meeting this goal, and many large insurers in Illinois and Missouri have announced they will cover all H1N1 flu shot costs, including physician fees. Their biggest barrier may ultimately not be insurance coverage — but vaccine availability. Further Reading:
Do health insurance plans cover H1N1 and seasonal flu shots?
Guidance on health insurance for swine flu vaccinations
Questions and answers on 2009 H1N1 vaccine financing "SWIPING" SIMPLIFIES HSA/FSA APPEALOur society has made paying with a quick swipe of a card just as common as pulling currency from a wallet. This approach entered the medical arena a few years back with the introduction of debit cards for health savings accounts (HSAs), and flexible savings accounts (FSAs), which patients can use to pay for medicines, co-pays, and other expenses. Though these cards are cost-effective, widely used, and relatively stable, their growth has not been as dramatic as some expected — and health care reform could dramatically change their future role. Considering the addition of HSA or FSA debit cards in your benefits package? Call us to evaluate the pros and cons for your group. Further Reading:
Is there a health care debit card in your future?
Making the most of flexible spending accounts
The power of plastic
A Quick Review of Last Issue's "Quick Poll"In the July 2009 issue of E to E we asked readers, "Are you planning any changes in employee benefits this year?" Specific survey results are noted in the chart, below.
October Quick Poll – Vote
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