Employees Need to Know: Demanding More Health Insurance Info from Employers

Over half of Americans receive health benefits through their employer, yet many struggle to understand key aspects of their coverage.

This knowledge gap presents an opportunity for employers to step up and take a more active role in educating their workforce about health insurance. Here's why employees should push for better health insurance information from their employers:

The Current Landscape

53.3% of the U.S. population gets health benefits through work (1); however, more than 50% of adults on employer-sponsored plans report difficulty understanding aspects of their health insurance (2). The disconnect highlights a critical need for improved health literacy among employees.

Why Employers Should Take the Lead

Employers are uniquely positioned to address this issue:

1. Direct influence: They have frequent contact with employees and understand their specific needs
2. Cost mitigation: Educating employees can help control rising health benefit costs (3) ‍
3. Productivity gains: A healthier, more informed workforce is likely to be more productive.
4. Enhanced workplace culture: Demonstrating investment in employee health can boost trust and communication.

Benefits of Improved Health Literacy

When employees better understand their health benefits:

• They feel empowered to take charge of their health
• They can make more informed decisions about utilizing their benefits
• The overall health of the workforce improves
• The workplace environment becomes more positive and enjoyable

Call to Action for Employees

Employees should advocate for:

1. Comprehensive health education campaigns (4)
2. Clear, accessible information about health plan options
3. Regular updates on changes to benefits
4. Resources to help navigate complex health insurance terminology
5. Opportunities to ask questions and receive personalized guidance

By demanding more from their employers regarding health insurance information, employees can drive holistic and positive change that benefits both individuals and organizations.  

Additional Resources:

https://www.cigna.com/employers/insights/informed-on-reform/employer-mandate

https://www.cdc.gov/health-literacy/php/research-summaries/communication-strategies.html?CDC_AAref_Val=

https://www.cdc.gov/healthliteracy/researchevaluate/comm-strategies.html

https://hms.harvard.edu/news/do-wellness-programs-work

‍