For HR and benefits managers, It’s the most “wonderful” time of the year … said in the most sarcastic tone imaginable. Yes, it’s “open enrollment” season, where employees are herded to make decisions on their healthcare plan that span the entire year. And every year, while the end-result should be a feeling of confidence, employees are often left feeling frustrated and confused. But even if this year’s cycle is complete, there are steps you can take starting today.
- Schedule EDUCATION sessions throughout the year.
Individual health and well-being is the MOST important thing for every person. Just like regular sales meetings and employee reviews – make it a priority to schedule routine benefits education sessions throughout the year. - Create benefits materials that are simple and visual.
People are busy and often do not have time to read through a lot of overwhelming materials. Design easy-to-understand materials that help them better understand their options. - Develop a central source of information.
That can be one person or department, along with one-stop-access for all the key information that employees need during the plan sign-up and throughout the year. - Consolidate employee information sessions.
It’s important that everyone hears the same information and the same, correct answers to questions at the same time. While not all employees can always attend the same session, try to maximize these opportunities to have open communications about your plan. - Work with a trusted advisor.
You are focused on whatever your business does, whether that be creating products or providing services. Which means that you likely don’t have time to develop your healthcare plan and be the expert on all the details. Find an experienced advisor to help your employees take care of the most important thing to them – their health and well-being. And it’s important to select an advisor – not just a broker, whose income is primarily created by the insurance companies they represent. Advisors are unbiased in their recommendations, and will make the best recommendations.
Learn more about Healthcare that Works at mitigatepartners.com.
