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HVBF Monthly Meeting - Human Resources
Roundtable Host: The Graduate Center at Loyola College “Changing Trends in Healthcare Benefits” Mary Atteberry-White, Eastern Savings Bank Chairwoman Christine Eichler welcomed the new attendees and prospective members, thanked Bert Randall of Franklin and Prokopik for providing breakfast and introduced Linda Ritter and Jim Hudson from Marsh McClennen. Linda spoke briefly about her background and then turned the presentation over to Jim. Jim’s presentation was an overview of the 2004 Mercer Survey, which is the largest and most comprehensive annual benefits survey. Overall, health benefit costs for 2004 rose more slowly than expected while the total health benefit cost per employee reached $6,679. Costs vary significantly by industry and have risen more slowly for small employers. Disease and care management programs are beginning to show a return on investment for larger employers. Jim reviewed several case studies of employers who have implemented different types of care management programs, all with some level of success. Jim briefly reviewed consumer directed health plans and discussed consumerism which is becoming a widely accepted concept. Jim also touched on Rx benefit cost increases which are slowing but continue to outpace overall health plan costs. |