Flexible, affordable solutions for small employers
Small employers value health benefits options that are affordable, flexible and simple, so that they can spend less time administering their health benefits and more time running their businesses.
In 2007, WellPoint introduced in several markets a new Web site, called EmployerAccess, that lets small employers go online to enroll members, access reports, maintain contracts, view and pay bills, and manage medical, dental and other benefits seamlessly. After only a few months, almost 6,500 new benefits administrators had signed up to use the Web site, and $6.5 million in premiums had been paid by small-group employers using the secure online system.
WellPoint also expanded its industry-leading consumer-driven health plans (CDHPs) to all customer segments across the country in 2007. Many individuals and small groups find these plans more affordable than standard plans because of their higher deductibles. In addition, CDHP Web-based tools and information can help members improve their health. In fact, almost 20 percent of our CDHP consumers say they exercise more and eat healthier diets since joining the plan, and more than 50 percent say they are better informed about their health.
One example of a small business that has benefited from the CDHP option is Accessa Coatings Solutions, a distributor of industrial coatings in Indianapolis, Indiana, that employs 30 people.
“Everybody’s very cost-conscious these days, and we thought this plan gave us the best bang for the buck,” said Vince Todd, Accessa’s president and CEO. “We wanted to provide our employees with the best coverage available at the best price. We think we made not only the best deal for the company but also a good deal for the employees.”