Forsite Benefits - Blog #employee healthcare educationForsite Benefits - Blog #employee healthcare educationhttps://www.forsitebenefits.com/blogs/tag/employee-healthcare-educationWed, 06 May 2026 09:15:49 -0700http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Disputing Medical Claims: Know Your Rights]]>https://www.forsitebenefits.com/blogs/post/disputing-medical-claims-know-your-rights1

Receiving a medical claim denial can feel overwhelming, especially when you were expecting your insurance to cover the service. The good news? Denials can sometimes be corrected or overturned with the right steps. Understanding how to dispute a medical claim can help you avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses and ensure your benefits are applied correctly.

What Does It Mean to Dispute a Medical Claim?

Disputing a medical claim (also called filing an appeal) is the process of asking your insurance company to review and reconsider a decision they’ve made about a claim. This typically happens when a service is denied, applied incorrectly to your deductible, or paid at a lower level than expected.

Before starting an appeal, review your Explanation of Benefits (EOB). This document explains how the claim was processed and provides a reason for the denial or reduced payment. Sometimes the issue is as simple as missing information or a coding error.

Common Reasons Claims Are Denied

  • Services were deemed not medically necessary
  • Prior authorization was not obtained
  • The provider was out-of-network
  • Incorrect billing codes were submitted
  • Coverage had lapsed at the time of service

Understanding the reason is the first step in deciding how to move forward. Once you’ve determined the denial reasoning, the next step is to dispute (appeal) the decision. 

How to Dispute a Medical Claim

1. Contact Your Insurance Carrier

Call the member services number on your insurance ID card or the contact information listed on the denial notification. Ask for clarification on the denial and confirm what documentation may be required to appeal.

2. Speak with Your Provider’s Office

Sometimes the provider can resubmit the claim with corrected coding or additional information. Many billing offices are experienced in handling these situations. 

3. Gather Supporting Documentation

This may include medical records, a letter of medical necessity from your doctor, or prior authorization approvals.

4. Submit a Formal Appeal

Follow your insurer’s appeal process exactly as outlined in your plan documents. Be mindful of deadlines - appeals often must be filed within a specific timeframe.

5. Follow Up

Keep copies of everything you submit and document phone calls, including dates and representative names. If you don’t receive a response within the stated review period, call to check on the status.

If your internal appeal is denied, you may have the right to request an external review by an independent third party. 

While the process can take time, claim disputes can be successfully resolved when members advocate for themselves + provide thorough documentation.

Forsite member? We're here for you.

If you're a Forsite client, remember, we are always here to support you in the claims process. You can have your employees reach out directly to our advocacy team using the button below

Contact our Advocacy Team
]]>Wed, 06 May 2026 10:15:50 -0500<![CDATA[Keeping a Pulse on Heart Health]]>https://www.forsitebenefits.com/blogs/post/keeping-a-pulse-on-heart-health

You want to be certain you are doing all you can do to take care of your heart health. Making healthy lifestyle choices and knowing your risk factors are two of the best ways to ensure your heart is well cared for. You may already eat nutritiously or stay active, but how do you know what your risk factors are? This is where your healthcare provider and heart-health screenings can help. 

​Preventative Screenings

Preventive screenings related to heart-health include blood pressure, cholesterol, body weight, and for some, blood glucose. Of these, blood pressure is one of the most critical because high blood pressure greatly increases your chance of heart attack or stroke, and often has no signs or symptoms. Starting at age 20, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends having your blood pressure checked at least once per year at your annual physical exam. Although, your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings if your blood pressure is higher than normal.


Your “lipoprotein profile” or cholesterol as it’s more commonly known, should be tested every 4 to 6 years after age 20. Like blood pressure, your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings based on your risk factors.


For those who are overweight and have at least one additional cardiovascular risk factor, your healthcare provider may ask for a blood glucose or “blood sugar” test. High blood glucose puts you at a greater risk for developing prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. When uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to heart disease and stroke.


While it all may sound a little dismaying, having these screenings can have many potential benefits. When you know your risks, you can work with your doctor to make positive changes in your health before serious illness occurs. Moreover, conditions are easier to treat when caught early on. If some of your readings are less than optimal, lifestyle changes and/or medication can often be used to control conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

                

Note: Before visiting the doctor for an annual exam, be sure your chosen physician is in-network according to your health plan. In-network care providers have a contract with your insurance provider to provide care at a set cost. It is typically more expensive to visit a care provider that is out-of-network. 

*The American Diabetes Association recommends testing for prediabetes and risk for future diabetes for all people beginning at age 45 years. If tests are normal, it is reasonable to repeat testing at a minimum of 3-year intervals.


(Table from Heart-Health Screenings | American Heart Association)

Does my Health Insurance Cover Screenings?

Most likely yes —the majority of health insurance plans cover preventive services such as screenings, annual physical exams, and vaccinations. To find out what your plan covers, you can request a Summary of Benefits and Coverage. This short and easy to understand document outlines your health plan’s coverage and is available from all health insurance companies and company-sponsored benefit plans. If you would like assistance understanding or clarifying information in your Summary of Benefits and Coverage, reach out to your company benefits broker for assistance.


Your heart-health and well-being are priceless and thankfully, having a check-up likely is too. 

The Ultimate Company Vs. Company Step Challenge is Back!

Employee physical and mental health is more important than ever and we find that movement is the best medicine. Involve your team in a fun, active step challenge where you will compete against other Wisconsin organizations and raise money for a great cause. 

   The Move Challenge >>   

Living a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle

Supporting a healthy heart and body goes beyond the doctor’s office. What you regularly eat for lunch or snack on has an impact on your heart, as does how active you are throughout the day. Here are some basic guidelines and tips that can help you take care of your heart and feel well for the long-term.


Nutrition: Eating nutritiously doesn't mean giving up all your favorite foods. Learn to make nutritious swaps where you can and find heart-healthy foods you enjoy. A dietary pattern that emphasizes nutrient-rich foods can help you control your weight, cholesterol, and blood pressure. 


Nutrient rich foods include:

  • A variety of fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains
  • Skinless poultry or fish
  • Nuts
  • Beans (canned or dried)
  • Good-for-you oils such as canola, olive, or sunflower
  • Low-fat dairy products

Another important factor to be mindful of in a heart-healthy diet is sodium intake. Sodium is a necessary mineral for our bodies that is involved in muscle function and sending nerve impulses. However, consuming too much sodium can put extra strain on your heart and blood vessels and lead to high blood pressure for some.


The AHA (American Heart Association) suggests eating no more than 2,300 milligrams (mg) of sodium per day and ideally limiting your daily intake to 1,500 mg per day for most adults. Cutting back can aid in preventing or reducing high blood pressure.


Preparing your own food from fresh or low-sodium ingredients is one of the top ways to reduce your sodium consumption. Often, premade, prepackaged foods contain high amounts of sodium. Read food labels, especially on premade breads, pizzas, soups, sandwiches, and cured meats, as these can be some of the biggest culprits when it comes to high sodium. Opt for the products with the lowest sodium content. 

Physical Activity: Regular physical activity is just as essential as good nutrition when it comes to preventing heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The AHA recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity each week for optimal health. Additionally, they recommend strength training at least twice a week.


Any movement that elevates your heart rate and causes you to breathe heavier than you typically would but still allows you to talk is considered moderate intensity. Examples of moderate-intensity activities include riding a bike, pushing a lawn mower, or taking a brisk walk. Activities such as these improve your cardiovascular fitness.


If you haven’t found exercise enjoyable in the past, look for different ways get active. Don’t force yourself to do exercise you greatly dislike or that makes you feel exhausted. Rather, look for activities you would have fun doing. Dance in your living room, go rollerblading, take up gardening, or find a friend to walk with. If you’re just starting to get active, start out slow. Reducing your sitting time or doing light activity has health benefits too and can be a great place to start if your fitness level is low.

Readers are also enjoying:

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Understanding the Basics of Laboratory Services >>

Are you looking to take employee healthcare education to the next level? A proper method of communication is key to effective benefit offerings. Choose an uncluttered, engaging medium where you can relay important information to your employees. Whether email or a company intranet, know that choosing a communication method is the most important step you will take in helping your employees and organization thrive.


We communicate with our team using Forsite EXP >>

'Keeping a Pulse on Heart Health' Sources:

https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/heart-health-screenings

 

https://www.heart.org/-/media/files/health-topics/answers-by-heart/why-should-i-limit-sodium.pdf?la=en

https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/the-facts-about-high-blood-pressure/how-high-blood-pressure-is-diagnosed

 

https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults

https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/aha-diet-and-lifestyle-recommendations

]]>Wed, 21 Jul 2021 13:31:00 -0500<![CDATA[Understanding the Basics of Laboratory Services as a Healthcare Consumer]]>https://www.forsitebenefits.com/blogs/post/understanding-the-basics-of-laboratory-services-as-a-healthcare-consumer

Laboratory services (Labs) are a healthcare offering which provide a snapshot of your current health and are typically performed annually or semi-annually. The importance of labs lies in their creating awareness for yourself and your doctor of your health status and progression.

 

Much like preventive care services, participating in lab work can catch illness or disease in its early stages. Labs can monitor your body’s response to treatments, thus preventing late detection and the medical bills that come with such treatments.


What Happens When a Patient is Recommended to Receive Lab Work?

A typical lab experience for a patient includes a sample collection; whether that sample is blood being drawn by a needle or urine being collected in a cup. The sample is sent to a lab where it is tested according to the doctor’s specifications. Results are produced and reported from these tests to the doctor who will then discuss the patients results as well as next steps to sustain or improve health. 

​Who Needs Laboratory services?

Individuals with a family history of chronic conditions {or} who are experiencing symptoms should inquire with their doctor for laboratory services. Such an inquiry can be made during your annual physical/wellness exam. When seeing a new doctor, have any recent lab work sent over. Keeping your lab history up-to-date will allow the comparing of lab tests and results over time and determine if new testing is needed.

  

Note: Before visiting the doctor for an annual exam, be sure your chosen physician is in-network according to your health plan. In-network care providers have a contract with your insurance provider to provide care at a set cost. It is typically more expensive to visit a care provider that is out-of-network. 

Are Laboratory Services (Labs) Covered by My Health Insurance?

Most health plans are required to offer laboratory services coverage. Lab services coverage means that your health plan will cover the routine tests your doctor orders. Typical lab services covered under a health plan include:

        

  • X-rays and diagnostic testing
  • CT scans and MRI’s
  • Blood and fluid tests
  • Biopsies
  • Pathology
  • Pregnancy tests

        

Note: Check with your insurance carrier to make sure the lab your tests are being sent to is in-network. It is important to know your benefits and what is covered by your health plan before scheduling an appointment by calling your benefits broker or insurance carrier to confirm.

The Ultimate Company Vs. Company Step Challenge is Back!

Employee physical and mental health is more important than ever and we find that movement is the best medicine. Involve your team in a fun, active step challenge where you will compete against other Wisconsin organizations and raise money for a great cause. 

   The Move Challenge >>   

What Happens After Lab Work Has Been Completed?

Once your lab work has been completed and results are reported to the doctor, the doctor will meet with you to discuss the results. Meeting with your doctor to review the results can be done in the doctor’s office or through a telehealth appointment.  It is important that you know what your numbers and overall results mean. Take your time when meeting with your doctor and feel free to ask questions. Even if your results come back ‘normal’, it is important to understand your health and obtain guidance and what you should do based on your results to maintain these ‘normal’ numbers.

 

What Questions Should I Ask My Doctor to Better Understand My Lab Results?

  • What do the numbers reported from my lab results mean for my overall health?
  • Are there any actionable items for me to take away from these test results?
  • Based on my lab results, what do you predict for my health in the long-term?
  • Are there any medications I will need to start taking, and is there a generic version available?
  • What are some lifestyle and diet changes I can make to improve my health?

Keep a Journal of Family Medical History and Symptoms.

Upon experiencing new or worsening symptoms, keep a medical journal or calendar of your symptoms until you are able to see your doctor. Doing so can help your doctor determine the type of laboratory services you may need. It is also best practice to write down your family history of disease and illness. A family history should Include which relative(s) and at what age the illness occurred. These details could help you qualify for laboratory services an otherwise unaffected patient wouldn’t be qualified for.

Are you looking to take employee healthcare education to the next level? A proper method of communication is key to effective benefit offerings. Choose an uncluttered, engaging medium where you can relay important information to your employees. Whether email or a company intranet, know that choosing a communication method is the most important step you will take in helping your employees and organization thrive.


We communicate with our team using Forsite EXP >>

Readers are also enjoying:

Understanding Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) >>

Understanding Healthcare Transactions and Confidently Paying Your Provider >>

]]>Tue, 13 Jul 2021 10:30:39 -0500<![CDATA[Forsite Move Challenge Asks Wisconsin to Get On Its Feet For Fifth Annual Step Event]]>https://www.forsitebenefits.com/blogs/post/forsite-move-challenge-asks-wisconsin-to-get-on-its-feet-for-fifth-annual-step-event

JUNE 28, 2021 - Registration is now on for the 5th annual Forsite Move Challenge, which will be bigger and better than ever with expanded participation throughout the entire state of Wisconsin and new challenge app features. This popular company vs. company step challenge, lasting the month of September, is an opportunity for organizations to support the physical and mental health of their employees, all while joining the community in friendly competition for a charitable cause. 100% of the team registration fees and donations will directly benefit this year’s charity partner, CP. 

Forsite Benefits’ Business Development Manager Toni Jaeckels, active Race Director of the beloved Festival Foods Turkey Trot and former Cellcom Green Bay Marathon Director, is joining in on the Forsite Move Challenge efforts this year. “I have always advocated for the importance of physical and mental health, especially of those closest to me and within our active community. That is why for many years I have been heavily involved in community race traditions. The Forsite Move Challenge is a great opportunity for companies to show they care about their employees’ well-being and promote a stronger company culture.” 

How it works:                

Start with a committed team captain, 7+ team members and corporate sponsor to register. Each team member tracks their own steps using a Fitbit, Garmin, Apple device or smart phone. Devices will sync to the Forsite Benefits’ corporate wellness mobile app, Motion Connected, where the challenge will take place virtually. Each team’s average daily steps will be counted to compete against others who are racing to achieve the highest average daily step count by the end of September. The registration fee is $250. To conclude the competition, the top 3 teams and the 10k Club members will be publicly recognized and celebrated with a closing ceremony.


Companies wishing to participate can register their teams at www.forsitebenefits.com/move through August 13. The challenge will last the full month of September. 

“Since starting in 2017, we’ve welcomed over 100 teams to participate in the Forsite Move Challenge, and have close to $45,000 for local charities in our community,” said Graham Ness, CEO & Partner of Forsite Benefit & Wellness. “We continue to be in awe of the companies who have stepped up in the community and I know we’ll see an even greater turnout this year as we open the invitation up to the entire state of Wisconsin. Also new this year, we are encouraging teams to personally challenge other organizations to this friendly and fun competition with the incentive of an additional donation in their name if the challenge invitation is accepted.” 

Throughout the event, individuals and teams can win prizes through weekly contests that will take place in the challenge app. As an added incentive, teams averaging 10,000+ steps by the end of the challenge will be welcomed into the 10k Club, where they will be publicly recognized for their efforts. 

“CP is once again very honored to partner with Forsite Benefits and be the recipient of the proceeds from the Forsite Move Challenge.” says Jon Syndergaard, Executive Director at CP. “While we continue to face challenges due to the pandemic, the financial support this event’s proceeds will provide is particularly meaningful as we continue to welcome back clients and open services.”


Alongside its charitable focus, the Forsite Move challenge promotes the physical and mental health of employees. Here are a few things past participants of the Move challenge have said; 


“Things like this just simply motivate a person to stay active!”


“The Move Challenge is very fun and motivating, especially when so many workout options are limited these days.”


“Thank you for doing this every year!” 

At a glance:

  • Wisconsin organizations are invited to join the 5th annual company vs. company Forsite Move Step Challenge this September
  • All proceeds from team registration fees will go to CP
  • Teams can register for the challenge through August 13
  • Team registration fee is $250
  • The challenge runs Sept 1 to Sept 30
  • Teams must have a corporate sponsor and at least 7 members
  • Challenge will be hosted virtually using Motion Connected app technology
  • Teams must have way to track individual steps using a Garmin, Fitbit, Apple Watch or smartphone
  • Questions about challenge can directed to Missy Steffek, Forsite Benefits, Benefit Advisor, msteffek@forsitebenefits.com
Register Your Team!

About Forsite Benefits & Wellness

Forsite Benefits & Wellness is a local health insurance agency on a mission to build a healthier tomorrow. For more than 20 years, Forsite Benefits & Wellness has been recognized as an innovative leader in employee benefits and wellness. Levering team and technology, Forsite delivers a better employee experience for Wisconsin organizations.

About CP

CP is a local non-profit organization, offering therapy and life skills services to children and adults with physical, cognitive, developmental, and sensory conditions. CP’s goal is to help people live they lives they want and go way beyond what they thought possible. CP has been a proud part of Northeast Wisconsin communities for more than 65 years and serves approximately 2,100 people throughout the area every year at its locations in Green Bay, Fox Cities and on the Lakeshore.

]]>Mon, 28 Jun 2021 06:09:09 -0500<![CDATA[4 Ways Employers Can Level-Up the Employee Benefit Experience]]>https://www.forsitebenefits.com/blogs/post/4-ways-employers-can-level-up-the-employee-benefit-experience

Unicorns, flying pigs, golden eggs, and a money tree. What do these have to do with your company’s Employee Benefits you ask? Absolutely nothing. But now that I have your attention let us talk about the benefits you, as an employer, offer and how you communicate those benefits to your employees.

 

Whether you are a company of under 50 or a fortune 100, benefits are typically promoted at onboarding for new hires and once a year at open enrollment. That is where it usually stops. Seriously! Outside of Payroll, your second or third greatest expense to be in business is only addressed one to two times per year. Not only are employee benefits expensive for you as the employer, but a big decision for us employees too. So, would you say addressing employee benefits 1-2 times a year is sufficient? I do not think so.

Address the Education and Communication Gaps.

Employees are most often not taught how to use their benefits and what might be worse is that most do not even know what benefits they have even after electing them. If an employee does not know what benefits he or she may have, do you think their spouse or significant other knows? More than likely not. Some of the most common questions or comments I receive as a Benefit Advisor include:


  • I do not know what benefits I have.
  • Where do I go with questions about my benefits?
  • Does my company have a wellness plan?
  • Do I have life insurance through work?
  • Is my doctor in-network?
  • Are there more affordable options for my prescription medications?


If Joe, the employee, does not know what his benefits are, how to use them, or where to go with questions about coverage, how can you expect him to make the most informed decisions about his health and wellbeing? See where I am going with this?


OK Brad, we hear ya. So, what can we do? Glad you asked!

Distribute a Simple To-Do List for Immediate Progress.

Each employee & their plan dependent(s) should be provided with this list to take action on the following items.

 

1.  Get registered on the Insurance Carrier’s website.

a.  Create a username & password for medical, dental & vision plans.

2.  Confirm that chosen care providers are in-network.

3.  Know the plan deductible and coinsurance and have a summary of benefits readily available.

a.  I always recommend calling the insurance customer service to verify my benefits before my appointments.

4.  Create a list of phone numbers & email address to call when you have question or need help with benefits-related questions.

5.  Obtain most recent ID cards for the plan holder and dependents.

a.  This list should contain the contact information of the company’s employee advocacy program through your benefits broker.

Forsite provides another helpful checklist, called The Open Enrollment Checklist, you can share with employees to ensure they are equipped with the resources and information they need to navigate benefit needs all year long.

Provide Employees with Year-Round Benefit Education.

Here are some ideas for topics you could address with your employees consistently throughout the year to increase employee engagement in healthcare education and awareness and reduce unnecessary claims.

    • Diabetes management - most health insurance plans have a program to help.
    • Employee Assistance Programs.
    • Heart health.
    • Mammograms.
    • Prescription medication saving tools (Amazon Pharmacy, Wal-mart $4 drug list, and GoodRx)
    • Safety reminders for those in manufacturing plants, shops or production lines.
    • Smoking cessation.
    • The importance of scheduling and attending an annual wellness exam.


Engage Employees Wherever They Are.

Recognize that not all your employees are in an office, cubicle, or storage B (“Excuse me, I believe you have my stapler” Melvin). You may have employees on the production floor, out in the field, on the road, working from home, across multiple locations, etc.


My assumption is that not every employee is effectively engaged or knows where to find important employee benefits info. You probably send all corporate communications via email, intranet, break room postings, or your Human Resources team members are fielding the questions. These are just the most common communication methods I hear.


Instead of these multi-channel communication approaches, don’t you think housing all communication and resources in one spot would be easiest, most effective, and provide the best employee experience?


Invest in the Best.

Your company can pay a gazillion dollars for the best benefits. But in order for those expensive benefits to attract and retain the best employees and build the best company culture, your company needs the best technology to effectively communicate year-round with employees and their family.

Get the Best Solution With Forsite Benefits' EXP.

We at Forsite Benefits have that solution to house all your important company communications and employee benefit information in one place; on the employees' smart phones. I love our App. We have been using our technology internally and are now offer our solution to companies who want to engage their employees in effective communications, benefits information and education, wellness initiatives, and company culture.

  

All those roadblocks of not knowing what benefits I have and where to go with insurance questions are gone as my company’s communications are in one spot. I don’t have to log onto my computer, get a printout, and ask my boss or HR team questions on what to do because my spouse asked me a question about our insurance.


“Hey, do we have life insurance through your work?”

“I don’t know.”

“Well do you know where you can find out?”

“No.”

“Who do we have to ask?”

“I don’t know!”


With EXP, employees and their dependent(s) can easily find the answers they seek right on the app.

EXP Educates Employees and Encourages Healthy Habits.

Education around benefits & wellness is oftentimes only covered at open enrollment. Our solution, EXP, aims to fix that. We surround your employees with the education they need to confidently navigate care, and improve their daily health habits.

LEARN MORE ABOUT EXP >>>

In summary, most companies do not have a consistent or effective way to communicate with their employees all year round. Most employees do not know what benefits they have or where to go with questions about their coverage. 2020 has spread our workforces out more than ever. Having the right communication tool to engage your employees has become so much more important.


Thanks for giving me your time! Now, let’s help our employees become the best, most educated and communicated-with healthcare consumers they can be!


This article was written by Brad Lindemann |blindemann@motionconnected.com

As a Business Development Manager for Motion Connected, Brad is an invaluable resource for employers when establishing, building upon or rebuilding the way employees are communicated with and engaged in company culture. With 15 years of experience assisting employees in benefit navigation, Brad can provide detailed insight into the struggles employees are facing today that employers might not know about, communication solutions to address these struggles and what information employers need to share with their employees for an elevated employee experience.


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]]>Wed, 28 Apr 2021 11:27:21 -0500<![CDATA[Know the Cost of Your Healthcare Before Receiving it with the 2021 Price Transparency Rule]]>https://www.forsitebenefits.com/blogs/post/know-the-cost-of-your-healthcare-before-receiving-it-with-the-2021-healthcare-transparency-rule

If a possible unknown medical bill in the mail from your healthcare visit stirs up more fear in you than the effects of untreated injury and illness, this article is for you. The Healthcare Price Transparency Rule, effective January 1, 2021, brings patients closer to knowing what care will cost before a visit to the doctor even happens. This historic ruling empowers healthcare consumers, such as yourself, to shop around for the most affordable and quality healthcare services. Not only will you know what to expect for a visit or procedure cost but can accurately prepare financially in advance.


"...the (hospital) Price Transparency Rule (the “Rule”) requires all hospitals operating within the United States to make public a list of their standard charges for items and services via the Internet in a machine-readable format. Hospitals must also provide prices for a list of 300 shoppable services that must be made publicly available in a searchable, consumer-friendly format..." - Healthcarelawinsights.com 


In years past, healthcare consumers being in the dark regarding prices of healthcare services has brought about anxiety over surprise medical bills. Several reputable surveyors (including the Kaiser Health Tracking Poll and NORC at the University of Chicago) have reported that while the vast majority of Americans, over 90%, believe that physical exams are important, less than half of the population schedules this crucial, annual visit to their doctor. 

The Dilemma Facing Today's Typical Healthcare Consumer.

Due to a fear of unknown cost, common preventive care and illness or injury related visits are foregone by too many Americans. As a result, chronic illness and disease is not detected as early as possible, resulting in later, more intense treatment and higher than necessary medical bills. 

The Future of Healthcare Consumerism.

The new healthcare transparency rule coupled with employees’ efforts to becoming a more educated consumer has potential to result in cost savings for employees and employers alike.


Healthcare consumers can be confident in their knowledge to get the right care from the right providers at the right time. The lessened anxiety and stress associated with unknown costs and navigating healthcare today can open the doors for patients to plan financially and receive necessary care. The predictable increased utilization of preventive care services could lead to more cases of early detection and an overall healthier population. 

The Mission: Becoming a Better-Informed Healthcare Consumer.

1.  List out the services you know you will need in the coming year: annual physicals, elective surgeries, childbirth, blood work, your annual eye exam, and other preventive care.


2.  Search the names of the healthcare providers you are considering for your care along with “price transparency” and locate for your needed service(s).


3.  Compare prices; shop around for the best price for your budget and healthcare needs.


4.  Schedule those preventive visits! Keep in mind: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.


5. Gather and organize your resources using this checklist to be ready in a pinch when a healthcare need arises.


Navigating healthcare is confusing, but you don’t have to navigate your plan alone. It is possible for you to be as educated a consumer of healthcare as you are groceries. Benefits are to be used as just that; a benefit to you and your dependents. 

Be Prepared. Keep it Simple. Get Educated.

Gather your resources, know who is in your network, understand how to reach out if you have broker advocacy tools such as Forsite Assist, and know where educational resources are regarding your benefits plan. 


Be prepared! Have a plan ready in the event of a medical emergency or mental health crisis knowing where to go and what information you need on hand. 

Download this free, printable newsletter for the office.

This Month's Nav Series Newsletter is a quick and easy read about the new Healthcare Price Transparency Rule and what it means for the future of healthcare consumerism.


Did you enjoy this educational read?

Check out our library of Nav Series newsletter topics and remember to subscribe to our employee healthcare education and receive a new topic each month to your inbox! 


]]>Fri, 23 Apr 2021 13:07:40 -0500<![CDATA[3 Steps For Employers to Help Retirement Ready Employees Make the Best Healthcare Decisions]]>https://www.forsitebenefits.com/blogs/post/3-steps-for-employers-to-help-retirement-ready-employees-make-the-best-healthcare-decisions

From newly hired team members to seasoned employees nearing retirement, every employee will have unique healthcare needs for their stage of life. If you provide employees sufficient education on how they can intelligently navigate healthcare, not only will employees save money, but claims will be mitigated which effect the cost of the employer-sponsored benefit plan.


When it comes to a stage of life and the healthcare education provided for said stage, the largest gap that we see, and employers often attest to, is among retirement ready employees.


Staying on the employer-sponsored benefit plan is rarely in the best interest of a retirement ready employee or the employer. With age, employees typically see more claims and complicated health issues that will weigh heavily on the company’s benefit plan. Alternative health insurance could save an eligible employee nearing retirement some financial strain and equip them with the options they need for their wellbeing. In turn, the employer could be spared high dollar claims that would affect their plan premium.


Because of these truths, your retirement ready employees knowing and understanding all healthcare options available to them is in the best interest of both the employee and the employer.

Three Steps Employers Can Take to Help Retirement Ready Employees Make the Best Healthcare Decisions.

Step 1: Establish an effective communication method with your employees.

A reliable communication method will ensure proper delivery of and engagement with important company updates and healthcare information. Perhaps company email, desktop messaging, or traditional paper notes into office mailboxes has been your communication practice over the years. With the overwhelming use of email today, desktop messaging only being accessible during office hours and traditional paper methods being less than reliable and un-trackable, these outdated communication methods rarely prove effective.


We find the best and most effective avenue to reach employees with important communications is through a device that never leaves their person; smart phones. Consider investing in a customizable smart phone app that would deliver notifications and text messages right to your employees’ phones.

Step 2: Educate your retirement ready population on proper healthcare navigation.

Unfortunately, because of its complicated and frustrating nature, insurance is seldom communicated about. Employees love education, but do not enjoy having to find information for themselves. Reach out to a strategic partner for employee healthcare education or gather educational resources yourself on:


Alert your employees that these resources are available and make them accessible. Use your established, effective communication method to deliver these resources.
Step 3: Empower retirement-ready employees to take action.

Encourage employees to consider their retirement needs 2-3 years before retirement, meet with a Financial Advisor to establish a budget, contact a Life Stage Support Counselor to discuss plan options, and ultimately enroll in a healthcare plan that is best suited for their unique current and long-term healthcare needs as they transition into retirement.

The Results of Proper Healthcare Education and Getting Employees Ready for Retirement.

Retirement ready employees choosing their best health insurance option is a big decision that takes time and is in the best interest of the employee and employer. With proper guidance and continued healthcare education, retirement ready employees will find themselves saving the most money and getting the best coverage for their individual healthcare needs. In turn, employers could mitigate or all-together avoid inheriting claims on the company benefits plan that will affect their population healthcare premiums in the future.


Actions for Retirement Ready Employees to Take Today to Save Money on the Most Common Healthcare Costs and Mitigate Future Claims.


1.  Schedule an annual physical exam or wellness visit. This annual preventive visit is covered at 100% through health insurance and catches chronic, genetic, and other disease early on and keeps treatment costs at bay.

 

2.  Get familiar and comfortable with telehealth services. Virtual doctor visits are a fraction of the cost of in-person visits and can be done from the comfort of your home using any technology device that supports a camera function.

 

3.  Know the resources available for prescription cost savings. Walmart’s $4 drug list, GoodRx and Amazon Pharmacy are just a few that offer tremendous savings on otherwise costly medications.

Check out our series of employee healthcare education newsletters: The Nav Series

Forsite Benefits creates monthly employee healthcare education on relevant topics for all stages of life. We compile useful information into easy-to-read and understand articles, and deliver free content to our email subscribers each month. 

The Nav Series

As a Life Stage Support Counselor for Forsite Benefits & Wellness, Charles uses his health care expertise and ambition to help clients choose the best healthcare plan for their unique individual and family needs along with solving exhausting issues that naturally arise when navigating healthcare. 



]]>Tue, 06 Apr 2021 11:48:04 -0500<![CDATA[Step-by-Step How Employees Can Find the Best Early Retirement Health Insurance Options]]>https://www.forsitebenefits.com/blogs/post/step-by-step-how-employees-can-find-the-best-early-retirement-health-insurance-options
How to Navigate Health Insurance For Retirees Under 65 Before Medicare Eligibility.

Retiring before 65? Hopefully finding the right health care coverage for you and your family has been at the top of mind. Roughly 90 days prior to your becoming Medicare eligible, chances are many of the health coverage options will present themselves to you in the mail. Each carefully crafted message surely tells you all the reasons {insert plan} is the best option for you. Unfortunately, no piece of mail, internet article or neighbor knows your unique individual or family situation, health history, current medications, retirement plans, or budget and each of these items play a huge role in deciding which retirement health insurance makes the most sense for you. 

Download this month's Nav Series Newsletter on early retirement to share with your team.

Medicare will be available to you at age 65. As an early retiree, how do you go about finding health care coverage that will best cover all your health care needs in retirement?

    

There is no cookie cutter health insurance coverage option for retirees. Everyone’s situation is unique. Take the next steps with the goal of understanding; what options are available to you, how do they work, and how does each plan option fit into your current life and future.

Step 1. Talk with your financial advisor about retirement planning.

Bring your retirement hopes and dreams to your financial advisor and nail down a budget. This will tell you what health care coverage you can afford, and help you allocate money for prescription medications, doctor visits, surgeries and other health related needs that may come up in your retirement years.

 

Step 2. Talk with a Life Stage Support Counselor on how each health care plan available to you fits with your unique needs.

Your trusted Life Stage Support Counselor will know the ins and outs of every option available to you including COBRA, the health insurance marketplace, private insurance market options, health sharing ministry programs, and short term medical policies. Forsite’s Life Stage Support Counselors are seasoned health insurance experts that advocate for our clients, not a direct insurance carrier. So you can be sure the education our team provides on each option available to you is transparent and truthful, and all conversations had with our counselors are 100% confidential.

 

Step 3. Take home all the information you are given and thoroughly digest it.

Consider your health history, current medications, budget, retirement lifestyle and family needs to make the best and most educated decision.

 

Step 4. Confidently choose your health care coverage and get help enrolling.

Once you have chosen the plan that makes most sense for you, take your decision to your Life Stage Support Counselor to guide you through enrollment in that plan. Forsite’s Life Stage Support Counselors will not only help you execute the plan you have chosen but continue to be a resource as you navigate your new plan in retirement.

Employers Need to Help Retirement Age Employees Make Smart Health Care Decisions and Plan For Retirement >>>

When it comes to a stage of life and the healthcare education provided for said stage, the largest gap that we see, and employers often attest to, is among retirement ready employees.

Common Mistakes to Avoid as an Employee Nearing Retirement.

 

1. Doing nothing or waiting until the last minute.

The complexity of the health care system coupled with fear and anxiety of change in health care plans causes many individuals to do nothing or wait until the last minute to get information on retiree health plan coverage.

 

2. Making decisions with the information you receive in the mail and online.

The bombardment of retiree healthcare information in the mail as well as information on the internet can often be misleading and not paint you the whole picture. Talk with your financial advisor and Life Stage Support Counselor on how each plan interacts with your healthcare needs.  

 

Now that you have a step-by-step guide to choosing health insurance for your retirement, prioritize your and your family’s health. Take care of your heart! And combat chronic illness. Use some of your new time to meal prep, cook at home, and get active.

 

Enjoy retirement!

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Employers Need to Help Retirement Age Employees Make Smart Health Care Decisions and Plan For Retirement


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