As each week goes by we come closer to implementing different requirements under the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act (PPACA). Most people are still confused about what this all means. Employees may have inflated expectations, they probably do not expect large premium increases and they may not be focusing on the choices and decisions they have to make.
Employers are burdened with a tremendous amount of new administration and with some important decisions (not to mention annual enrollment and related health benefit changes).
All of this presents opportunities and challenges. One thing is very clear, both from a strategic perspective and from a legal one employers will want to ramp up communications. Creative employers can turn legal obligations into positive employee relations, improved labor relations and perhaps cost savings. Now is not the time to rely on corporate speak and legal jargon.
Take each relevant element of PPACA and EXPLAIN it to employees. Tell them it’s objective, how it affects them and their employer, what impact there may be on health care costs and when appropriate, what action they should take to maximize the benefit value.
Employers must comply with the law, but they should do so by placing themselves in the best possible light; employees will appreciate the extra effort.
Keep communication simple, light and personal (there nothing more personal in the workplace than employee benefits especially health benefits). Use channels that meet today’s needs like e-mail and the Internet. Make sure communication reaches the home. Use this opportunity to explain health care costs and the individuals role in managing those costs. Promote your wellness and cost containment efforts along with required information. Explain why controlling costs is vital for the employer and thus important to workers as well. If you are self insured make sure your employees know what that really means (especially related to PPACA matters), including the role of your administrator in paying claims and resolving claim appeals.
There was a great deal of misinformation during the health reform debate, take this opportunity to communicate the facts as reform affects your company. Show your employees you care. A modest investment in communications pays big dividends.
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