Celeste Parker, the Benefits and Relocation Director at Costco, shares insights from her 24-year journey with the company, highlighting the evolving landscape of employee benefits. Initially drawn to Costco for its commitment to staff welfare, Celeste transitioned from a temporary job during her studies in HR management to a dedicated position within the company’s HR department, ultimately developing a passion for employee benefits. Over the years, she’s witnessed significant shifts in what employee benefits entail, moving beyond traditional offerings like medical and dental coverage to include a more holistic approach encompassing mental, emotional, and social well-being. Celeste discusses how the perception of employee benefits has transformed over the years. While Costco still prides itself on providing excellent medical and retirement plans, there’s now an essential focus on ensuring employees actively use these benefits. She emphasizes the need to not only provide comprehensive benefits but also effectively communicate their value to employees so they can fully utilize them. This involves understanding the unique needs and preferences of the workforce, where communication strategies are tailored to resonate with diverse employee demographics. Communication is a significant part of Celeste’s role, with about 50% of her team's effort dedicated to this area. She emphasizes the need for constant adaptation in communication strategies to keep them relevant and appealing to employees. By gathering feedback directly from employees and employing team members who have frontline experience, Costco strives to understand the most effective ways to reach its diverse workforce. Celeste also highlights the importance of consistency in messaging and the effectiveness of managers acting as direct points of contact for benefits-related inquiries, contributing to a continued culture of trust and open communication. As for the effectiveness of various communication channels, Celeste contends that engagement rates vary based on the employee demographic, and she advocates for using a multi-channel approach. The leadership team’s role in conveying information about benefits is crucial; direct supervisors can facilitate discussions about available resources, fostering a culture where employees feel comfortable seeking assistance for personal and health-related challenges. Costco’s philosophy promotes a comprehensive open-door policy, enabling employees to escalate issues through the hierarchy if needed. Reflecting on the successful implementation of new programs, Celeste cites an unexpected rise in participation in a gastrointestinal issues program introduced recently, simply due to the critical nature and commonality of the issue. It illustrates the importance of making specific and targeted solutions available to employees. Additionally, she shares that a coaching partnership for chronic conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes, has shown high engagement over the years, validating Costco’s focus on addressing prevalent health concerns. Looking at future trends, Celeste is interested in the potential role of artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming the healthcare landscape. While she acknowledges that some jobs may be replaced through automation, she anticipates that AI can enhance operational efficiencies, especially in areas like claims processing. However, she stresses the need for a human element in healthcare, advocating that the education and proactive engagement of employees concerning their health benefits remain an ongoing challenge, especially as generational workforce dynamics shift.

Jimmy Martinelli, an employee benefits advisor at the Baldwin Group, shares his insights on the changing landscape of employee benefits and how innovative solutions are reshaping health and wellness strategies for businesses. Drawing from his experience transitioning from the startup world, Jimmy discusses how his firm has strategically expanded in the Midwest by acquiring high-performing agencies and offering unique resources to clients. He highlights the growing interest in alternatives to traditional health insurance models, such as level funding, self-funding, and Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs), as employers grapple with rising healthcare costs. Jimmy also emphasizes the importance of tailored health plans and employee education in improving outcomes. He explains his collaborative approach, working with HR leaders and executives to develop effective benefits strategies that address issues like medical debt and preventative care. With a focus on trends such as onsite clinics and workplace health challenges, he expresses optimism about the future of benefits management, particularly with the increasing adoption of innovative models like ICHRAs in response to market demands and legislative shifts.

In this conversation with Justin Futrell, a self-funded benefits advisor at True North Companies, we explore how innovative strategies in healthcare can drive down costs and improve outcomes. Justin shares real-world examples of how employers are transforming their healthcare offerings by leveraging data, direct contracting, and creative incentives. From reducing gaps in care to finding more affordable treatment options, these practical solutions empower both employers and employees. Listeners will gain actionable takeaways on how to create a more cost-effective and impactful healthcare plan. Whether you're a business leader looking to save millions or simply curious about the future of employee benefits, this episode offers a fresh perspective on managing healthcare and creating meaningful change in the workplace.

This week Sasha delves into the complexities of the healthcare system, particularly focusing on employer-sponsored healthcare. Brian Klepper, highlights the challenges faced by employers in leveraging their collective purchasing power to drive better deals and hold the healthcare industry accountable. He explores the dire state of healthcare economics and the need for collaboration to improve outcomes and lower costs. Brian points out the emergence of high-performing healthcare organizations that offer innovative solutions in various niches, such as chronic disease management and pharmacogenetic testing. He emphasizes the importance of identifying and supporting these organizations to drive significant cost savings and better health outcomes. The discussion also touches on the need for advanced primary care models and the integration of various healthcare solutions to streamline patient care and improve engagement. The conversation covers the obstacles in the current fee-for-service healthcare model, where new technologies and solutions struggle to gain traction without aligning with billing practices. Brian discusses examples of groundbreaking healthcare innovations, such as a blood test for predicting preterm births and a circulating DNA test for colorectal cancer screening. He emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making and vetting high-performing companies to drive positive results in healthcare. The interview concludes with insights on the challenges ahead in reforming the healthcare system, particularly in the face of dominant healthcare conglomerates and evolving market dynamics. Brian and the host discuss the need for employers to adopt innovative solutions and work collaboratively to drive change in the industry. The interview provides a detailed and nuanced exploration of the current healthcare landscape and the potential paths forward to improve quality, reduce costs, and enhance patient outcomes.

Stephanie Koch, the director of HR at Hendry Marine, shares her 25-year journey in HR and how she transitioned into becoming an expert in healthcare benefits. Starting as an executive assistant, she discovered her passion for HR and the impact she could make in company culture. Stephanie delves into the shift to self-funded healthcare plans and the introduction of reference-based pricing, which initially was met with skepticism but proved to be a game-changer in reducing costs and providing better benefits for employees. She highlights the importance of continuous education and communication with employees to ensure understanding and engagement with the new healthcare plans. Stephanie emphasizes the need for companies to be strategic in managing their healthcare costs and view it as an opportunity to contribute to the bottom line rather than just a routine expense. She shares the success story of implementing a walk-in clinic at Hendry Marine, which led to early detection of health issues and improved employee wellness. Stephanie stresses the significance of utilizing data to identify gaps in preventative care and make informed decisions. She discusses the collaborative effort between brokers, advisors, and the Imagine360 team in analyzing data and devising strategies for improving healthcare outcomes. Stephanie encourages other employers to be open-minded and proactive in exploring innovative healthcare solutions to not only control costs but also enhance employee well-being and company profitability.

In this episode of the Healthy Savings Podcast, Lindsay Clarke Youngwerth, the founder of Keenly, shares her journey from meeting someone on an airplane who introduced her to the insurance industry to establishing her own business focused on transforming healthcare affordability and accessibility. Lindsay explains her transition from selling life insurance to specializing in employee benefits and the shift in her perspective towards creating meaningful change in healthcare. She discusses the importance of building new foundations in business practices and her engagement with Q4 for intelligence in enhancing her healthcare solutions. Lindsay delves into the healthcare landscape in Boise, Idaho, highlighting the presence of two primary health systems and the diverse entrepreneurial spirit among employers in the community. She reflects on the changing dynamics of businesses in Boise, including the turnover from baby boomers selling their businesses to younger generations with innovative ideas. Lindsay shares a success story of a startup called Simply Eloped and emphasizes the need for accessible and affordable healthcare solutions tailored to individual employee health outcomes. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by employers in offering impactful healthcare benefits, the reluctance to embrace new models like self-funding, and the importance of transparent communication with employees to build trust in healthcare plans. Lindsay discusses the significance of addressing preventive care, such as skin cancer screenings, within healthcare plans and the need for better education and coverage for such services to improve health outcomes. She also emphasizes the value of maintaining strong relationships with colleagues and vendors in business dealings and making decisions that prioritize fairness and the well-being of employees and patients. In wrapping up the episode, Lindsay and Sasha express their mutual appreciation for the discussion and the potential for future collaborations. They touch on valuable lessons learned from past experiences, including the importance of handling professional relationships with integrity and respect, making prompt decisions for the benefit of all parties involved, and maintaining a balance between assertiveness and compassion in business interactions. Lindsay and Sasha conclude with a shared commitment to creating meaningful changes in healthcare and fostering positive relationships in the business world.

In this episode, Sasha Gribov hosts Christy Gupton, founder and president of Custom Benefit Solutions, to discuss the transformative potential of Direct Primary Care (DPC) in today’s healthcare environment. Christy emphasizes the necessity of moving primary care out of the fee-for-service model to improve patient outcomes and reduce unnecessary complexities. She shares her journey and insights on how employers can adopt innovative healthcare strategies, like DPC, to create more efficient, cost-effective, and patient-centered health plans. Christy also addresses the challenges faced by small businesses in managing healthcare costs and the importance of making informed decisions about health plan structures. From advocating for transparent PBM practices to integrating care coordination and virtual primary care, Christy highlights actionable steps employers can take to enhance their employees' healthcare experiences. Tune in to learn how these strategies can lead to significant improvements in both employee satisfaction and overall healthcare savings.

Adam Zebian provides insights into the innovative approach Helix Insurance Advisors is taking in the health insurance industry. He discusses the company's focus on being unique and partnering with the right entities to create a beneficial ecosystem. Adam shares his extensive experience in the insurance field, highlighting the importance of transparency and working as a fiduciary for clients. He explains how Helix works with employers of various sizes, offering customized, cost-effective health plans and emphasizing the significance of self-funding in reducing costs. Adam delves into the challenges and opportunities in the health care landscape in the Northeast, emphasizing the need for patient-centric care and alternative payment models. He discusses the consolidation of health plans and the impact on premiums, stressing the importance of direct contracting and leveraging cash pay options for better cost management. Adam also touches upon the role of medical management partnerships in navigating the complexities of health care delivery. In terms of future goals, Adam mentions the focus on marketing, networking, and expanding Helix's reach while maintaining a steady growth pace. He outlines the ideal profile of employers who could benefit from Helix's services, such as those facing escalating health care costs, seeking better service from brokers, or transitioning between market segments. Adam's dedication to transforming the health insurance landscape and providing value-driven solutions shines through in his conversation, offering a glimpse into the forward-thinking approach of Helix Insurance Advisors.

Daisy Wolf from A16Z Bio and Health joined Sasha Gribov, host of Healthy Savings, to discuss the healthcare industry and the potential for innovation and impact. Daisy provided insights into A16Z's role as a venture capital fund investing in health and life sciences startups, highlighting the importance of technology in transforming healthcare. She emphasized the vast opportunities within the healthcare industry for startups to address real problems and make a meaningful impact. Daisy shared her journey into the healthcare investing world, mentioning her experience at Facebook and a venture fund before joining A16Z. She discussed the potential of AI in healthcare, mentioning its role in drug discovery, diagnosis, care delivery, and back-office automation. Daisy highlighted the current focus on non-clinical AI solutions to streamline administrative processes in healthcare and improve efficiency. Sasha and Daisy discuss the challenges and opportunities in healthcare, including the shift towards consumer-driven healthcare, increased focus on longevity and biohacking, and the importance of data transparency and cost awareness. They discussed the need for founders in healthcare to challenge the status quo, innovate, and leverage technology to solve real problems. Daisy encouraged aspiring founders to consider healthcare as a rewarding industry for creating impactful and scalable solutions. The conversation also touched on the complexity and regulations in healthcare, the potential of AI to enhance patient care and optimize processes, and the inspiring stories of founders driven by personal experiences to make a difference in healthcare. Sasha shared examples of Milu Health's impact in helping patients with medical bills and improving healthcare experiences. Daisy and Sasha emphasized the importance of optimism, innovation, and using technology to drive positive change in the healthcare industry.

Aaron Witwer, the president of Ben Engage and the Revolution Benefits Group, discusses the importance of fixing health plans before implementing wellness programs. He emphasizes the need for employers to provide equitable and ethically designed health plans that prioritize preventive care, affordability, and timely access to healthcare services. Aaron shares his journey from working in corporate health at the Cleveland Clinic to becoming a broker and eventually founding Ben Engage to build better health plans. Aaron highlights the challenges in the healthcare system, including the lack of transparency, high costs, and the influence of insurance carriers and hospital systems. He advocates for creating customized health plans for employers, especially blue-collar workers, that prioritize zero deductibles and copays for certain services within regulatory frameworks. By incentivizing employees to choose cost-effective and quality care options, employers can save on premiums and improve health outcomes. Aaron discusses the importance of building trust with employers by being transparent, collaborative, and providing excellent service. He envisions a future where more employers adopt customized health plans, navigate to lower-cost options, and prioritize employee well-being. Aaron encourages industry professionals to continue evolving, collaborating, and providing resources to drive the movement towards more equitable and accessible healthcare for all.

We we hear from Chris Wolpert, the founder of GBS, as he shares his journey from starting his own agency to becoming a leader in creating effective health plans for employers. Chris discusses how he leveraged his storytelling and communication background to create a comic book called "Hit Zero" as a marketing tool, which explains complex benefits solutions in a digestible format. He also talks about his upcoming documentary, "It's Not Personal, It's Just Healthcare," set to be released in April 2024, highlighting challenges and successes in the industry. Chris reflects on being nominated as an advisor of the year finalist, acknowledging the unique approach he took in building his small agency with a lean team while collaborating with industry experts to provide top-notch services. He emphasizes the importance of work-life balance and building a business around his lifestyle, allowing flexibility to coach his kids' soccer team and enjoy family time while maintaining a successful agency. Throughout the conversation, Chris shares valuable insights on empowering employers to control healthcare costs, providing financial incentives for employees to access high-quality care, and taking action to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. He encourages utilizing data and expert guidance to make informed decisions and create sustainable health plans that prioritize employee well-being. Chris's innovative strategies and dedication to exceptional client service have set him apart in the industry, inspiring others to follow a similar path to success.

Julie Yoo shares her journey from aspiring pre-med student to becoming a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Initially starting her career in computer science during the dot-com boom, Julie transitioned into healthcare through various entrepreneurial ventures. Her experience in building startups, particularly in the genomic and payer spaces, provided her with deep insights into the challenges and opportunities within the healthcare sector. This background now informs her investment strategies, focusing on leveraging technology to solve fundamental supply-demand mismatches in healthcare. Julie highlights the transformative potential of AI in healthcare. She emphasizes that advancements in AI, especially in data accessibility and processing capabilities, have drastically changed the landscape. Where integrating data from EHRs and claims data once required bespoke solutions, today's standardized APIs and regulatory support like the Cures Act make it much easier. Julie envisions a future where AI not only supports administrative and operational tasks but also augments clinical decision-making, ultimately improving patient outcomes. Julie also discusses the evolving role of venture capital in healthcare innovation. Julie notes the shift from a time when few investors had a tech-focused healthcare thesis to today’s vibrant ecosystem with diverse funding options. This growth is partly driven by increased data liquidity and technological advancements, which have lowered barriers for startups. Julie’s investment criteria include partnering with CEOs she respects and backing businesses she is passionate about, aiming to create a supportive environment that mirrors her own entrepreneurial experiences.

Liz Antaya, an employee benefits advisor, discusses her journey in the healthcare system and the solutions she and her company are trying to provide. She shares her experience working with different employer groups, especially in transitioning to self-funded healthcare models. Liz talks about the challenges faced by employees due to increasing healthcare costs and the need to provide better care while mitigating expenses. She highlights the success story of a car dealership client who saved over $200,000 annually by implementing a tailored health plan. Liz emphasizes the importance of simplifying the process for employees, making it easy for them to access quality care through direct primary care and nurse navigators. She discusses the shift towards unbundled, actively managed, employer-built health plans and the role of technology in improving healthcare outcomes. Liz envisions a future where more employers are open to exploring alternative healthcare options to provide better care for their employees at lower costs. She stresses the importance of a balanced approach between technology and personal touch in healthcare delivery. Overall, Liz's insights shed light on the evolving landscape of healthcare and the need for innovative solutions to address the challenges faced by both employers and employees.

In this episode of The Healthy Savings Podcast, we are joined by guest Christina Heckathorn, an employee benefit advisor from Employee Benefit Associates, EBA. Together, we explore the journey towards sustainable healthcare solutions in Kentucky, shifting from annual cost increases to innovative self-funded and level-funded plans. Collaboration with industry leaders like Health Rosetta has been pivotal in navigating the complexities of self-funding successfully while maintaining transparency and educating clients about the benefits and risks involved. Strategic partnerships with entities such as milu Health ensure tailored solutions for clients, promoting long-term savings and operational efficiency. Empowering employers with knowledge about self-funding and debunking myths surrounding traditional healthcare models is essential to revolutionizing the healthcare landscape for small to mid-sized businesses. Critical aspects like stop-loss contracts and choosing trustworthy partners are highlighted to mitigate risks effectively. Innovative programs like Thrive RN are discussed, showcasing how specialized support and cost-saving measures can enhance members' healthcare experiences. The episode delves into a unique healthcare plan prioritizing employee well-being and affordability in rural Kentucky. Through partnerships with local pharmacies and inclusion in the Anthem network, substantial savings are offered without compromising on quality care. The focus on reducing co-pays, providing access to vital services, and enhancing employee experience through a nurse navigator program exemplifies the commitment to community support and cost-effective solutions. Disparities in healthcare costs and the importance of providing alternative, cost-effective options are emphasized, alongside building trust with employees to ensure the plan's success. The hosts' anecdotes shed light on the challenges and successes in transforming the healthcare plan into a well-structured, employee-centric model. Continuous improvement, transparency, and patient-centric care remain at the core of reshaping healthcare provision. Furthermore, we discuss managing employee health insurance plans, emphasizing the need for a reliable consultant, Third-Party Administrator (TPA), and Pharmacy Benefit Manager. Data-driven decisions, transparency in evaluating care quality, and tracking performance metrics for medical procedures are crucial for enhancing patient outcomes. Success stories of significant savings through self-funded plans and the value of client-oriented consulting firms over corporate-driven approaches are highlighted, showcasing a dedication to client outcomes and transparency.

In this episode of the Healthy Savings Podcast, Sasha Gribov, co-founder of Milu Health, interviews Laurie MacDonald, founder and agency president of MacDonald Consultants. Laurie shares her journey into health insurance advising, starting from her experience at Fidelity Investments to working with Cigna and eventually becoming an advisor. She discusses the challenges and complexities of the healthcare industry, especially regarding cost management and quality of care. Lauri highlights the lack of transparency in healthcare pricing and the hidden costs within the system. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on quality to ultimately save money, citing examples of cost-effective strategies implemented for her clients, such as negotiating fees with high-quality healthcare providers and promoting health advocacy within organizations. The conversation delves into the need for greater transparency in healthcare pricing and quality metrics for patients to make informed decisions. Sasha and Laurie discuss the challenges of building trust with patients regarding healthcare recommendations and pricing. They also touch on the evolving landscape of healthcare for employers, especially small businesses, and the importance of employee engagement in managing healthcare changes within organizations. Looking towards the future of healthcare, Sasha and Laurie express optimism about the potential for improved engagement and technology-driven solutions to empower patients and drive better healthcare outcomes. The episode concludes with a discussion on how to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and the importance of proactive health advocacy for employers and employees.

Greg Humkey discuss the positive impact of direct primary care on claims costs, with data showing a decrease over a three-year period of 12% for both employees and employers. Greg shares his background in the healthcare world, influenced by his family-owned agency and experiences selling educational textbooks during college summers. They discuss the rising costs of individual health insurance, reflecting on how prices have increased significantly over the years. The conversation continues into the benefits of direct primary care, emphasizing the importance of good primary care for employees with multiple health conditions. They highlight the advantages of direct primary care, such as improved doctor-patient relationships, immediate responses to health concerns, and increased enrollment rates. The importance of accessibility to direct primary care clinics, especially in rural areas, is also noted. The discussion shifts to the effectiveness of virtual direct primary care solutions and the availability of such services across different locations. They touch on the role of nurse navigation in educating and supporting employees in utilizing healthcare programs effectively. The focus then turns to addressing pharmacy costs, with a particular example showcasing a significant reduction in pharmacy spend through tailored programs, resulting in substantial savings for both employees and employers.

Heather Larson, an SVP at Lockton, talks about her journey into the healthcare and employer-sponsored healthcare field. She shares her experience starting from scooping ice cream at TCBY to working in benefits and healthcare. Heather and Sasha discuss the disparities in healthcare experiences based on job types and industries, highlighting the importance of benefits in various sectors. Heather explains how the healthcare industry has evolved over the years, mentioning the significant increase in costs, the shift towards high deductible health plans, and the impact of rising drug prices. They explore the need for technology to revolutionize healthcare, improve patient engagement, and provide personalized health recommendations similar to how retailers offer personalized services. The conversation delves into the challenges of harmonizing diverse philosophies around benefits within organizations and the importance of aligning benefits with business objectives. Heather shares success stories from implementing various benefits programs, such as fertility support, caregiver support, financial wellness initiatives, and digital musculoskeletal care in manufacturing sectors, showcasing the positive impacts on employee retention and health outcomes. They touch on the need for better communication and engagement strategies regarding employees' benefits, citing low engagement with traditional benefit guides and the importance of measuring and optimizing employee education and engagement. Heather emphasizes the value of data-driven approaches to improving benefits communication and the need for innovative solutions like one-pagers and targeted interventions to enhance employee understanding and utilization of benefits.