Key Action Steps for Employers

1.  
   Set the goal of increasing health value, not minimizing health benefit costs
2.  
   Develop program for employee wellness in the workplace and beyond.
3.  
   Choose plans that demonstrate excellence in playing the roles described for them.
4. Select plans and plan administrators based on health results, not administrative convenience
5. Align interests by encouraging long-term relationships between the plan and subscribers
6. Expect demonstrated excellence from all providers involved in employee care
7. Collaborate with other employers in advancing value-based competition
8. For complex conditions consider partnerships with centers of excellence who share the goal of readiness to return to work.
9. Offer encouragement, incentives, and support to employees in managing their health
10. Provide independent information and advising services to employees to supplement other sources
11. Offer health plan structures that provide good value and encourage saving for long-term health needs
12. Create collaborative vehicles with other employers to offer group insurance coverage to employees or affiliated individuals not currently part of the employer’s health plan
13. Support insurance reform that levels the playing field among employers
14. Health benefits must ultimately be a senior management responsibility, with staff responsible for results