Success Story: Controlling Costs Through Benefits Strategy

The Challenge The medical prescription spend for a western Pennsylvania university was spiraling out of control. The per employee per month (PEPM) drug cost for specialty medications accounted for nearly 50% of the total medical/Rx claim cost. In 2020, the university faced a high double-digit increase from their benefits provider with no programs to mitigate … Continued

Group Health Plan Coverage Implications: HDHP’S Can Cover COVID-19 Testing and Treatment Pre-Deductible

On March 11, 2020, the IRS announced that high-deductible health plans (HDHPs) may cover COVID-19 testing and treatment without a deductible or with a deductible below the required minimum deductible for HDHPs without losing their HDHP status under the Code or threatening the tax-favored treatment of participants’ health savings accounts (HSAs). The notice applies broadly … Continued

Can I Elect Cobra if I am Medicare Eligible?

Recently retired or retiring soon? Deciding what to do with your health insurance coverage can be a challenge, but we’re here to help. The following information is important to consider when planning retirement, and how to insure your healthcare needs. Q. What are my options for healthcare coverage when I retire? A. Your previous employer … Continued

The EEOC Officially Removes Wellness Plan Incentive Rules

In late December 2017, the judge in the AARP vs. EEOC case ordered that the wellness plan incentive rules contained in the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) regulations to be vacated beginning January 1, 2019. The EEOC had an opportunity to draft new rules during the spring and summer of last year, yet we were … Continued

HSAs: Health Savings Accounts

Health savings accounts (HSAs) are a growing trend in health care. An HSA is a tax-exempt savings account established for the purpose of paying for the qualified medical expenses of an individual and/or his or her spouse and tax dependents. HSAs are designed to provide eligible individuals with the following federal tax benefits: HSA contributions … Continued

Compliance Alert: The American Health Care Act Passes the House

Advocates of the initiative to replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA) are pleased that the House Republicans were able to pass the American Health Care Act (AHCA). While getting the bill approved in the House is a big accomplishment, and one that GOP leadership can legitimately celebrate, it is important to understand that this is … Continued