Healthcare premiums represent the financial backbone of health insurance. They’re the regular payments that policyholders make to maintain coverage. Healthcare premium affordability is a significant concern among policyholders, especially considering premiums are expected to increase by 7% in 2025. For employer groups who want to deliver exceptional value to members, understanding what constitutes an affordable premium […]

In 2021, 49% of adults in the United States with an income of less than $24,000 annually were “cost insecure” regarding healthcare affordability. Another 14% were considered “cost desperate.” Sixty percent of adults earning the same amount stated that healthcare costs contribute to their stress. It makes sense that healthcare benefits from employers remain attractive to prospective employees. However, […]

A large, independent health system in Pennsylvania—employing over 1,500 healthcare professionals—was seeking to enhance its employee benefits offering while relieving the administrative burden on its human resources team. With over 300 participants enrolled in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and a cumbersome, manual COBRA administration process, the organization turned to its trusted advisors at Alliant […]

We’re excited to announce a powerful new way for Difference Card members to take charge of their health and wellbeing! Introducing our refreshed and modern library of wellness videos — a dynamic collection of expert-led sessions designed to support your total wellness journey. Whether you’re aiming to reduce stress, eat healthier, get more active, or […]

At The Difference Card, we believe in celebrating the partners who help us drive meaningful healthcare savings for clients across the country. This month, we’re proud to shine our Spotlight on Ari Wind from the BenefitMall New York team—a standout producer whose passion, professionalism, and partnership exemplify what it means to make a difference. 💼 […]

Rising medical costs are a top concern for employers, employees, and health plans. In response, cost containment in insurance steps up with programs, processes, and strategies designed to control or reduce healthcare spending without compromising care quality. Cost containment means offering employer groups and brokers a means of helping clients get the best value from […]

Knowing how to manage a Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan (MERP) in compliance with federal regulations is important for helping your clients maintain the financial benefits of the healthcare program. As an insurance broker, you should be up to date with the latest compliance rules associated with your MERP employer group plan. This comprehensive guide explores how […]

If you’ve been laid off or decided to leave your job, you may be wondering what will happen to your health savings account (HSA). Since you own the HSA, it’ll follow you wherever you go. This means you’ll still have your HSA, whether employed, unemployed, or switching jobs. Learn more about how to open an HSA and what happens to your […]

As healthcare costs rise, companies need options to help their employees afford quality care while minimizing employer expenses. Medical Expense Reimbursement Plans (MERP) are among the insurance producer’s most effective tools for creating win-win group coverage solutions, but they’re also among the most misunderstood healthcare products. Whether you want help understanding MERP products or explaining […]

A biotechnology company based in metropolitan Boston, employing over 200 people, sought to reduce their escalating health insurance expenses while enhancing employee benefits. Facing more than $4 million annually in fully insured premiums across four health plan options, the company turned to its insurance consulting firm for a strategic solution. To tackle the challenge, the […]