MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Benefits Quarterly' source. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:07:07 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5550876&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22175123%26dopt%3DAbstract This article highlights some of the bestpractices the study found for an integrated health and wellness program. PMID: 22175123 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5550876 Fri, 30 Dec 2011 10:54:01 +0100 5550876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5550875&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22175124%26dopt%3DAbstract This article discusses the many advantages of flex, flex best practices emerging across Asia, and important considerations for employers when designing flexible benefits. Finally, the author shows how one global company in Singapore found flex to be an effective differentiator for attracting and retaining talent as well as helping manage employee health care costs. PMID: 22175124 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5550875 Fri, 30 Dec 2011 10:54:01 +0100 5550875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5550874&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D22175125%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 22175125 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5550874 Fri, 30 Dec 2011 10:54:01 +0100 5550874 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5194643&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21879608%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews several challenges employers face in managing employee health and absence in a well-integrated manner. Although such an undertaking is not easy, the additional cost national health care reform may bring makes the interrelationship between employer profitability and employee absence, health and disability more crucial than ever for employers to recognize and manage. PMID: 21879608 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5194643 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 11:20:02 +0100 5194643 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5194642&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21879609%26dopt%3DAbstract This article targets key aspects of a comprehensive long-term health and productivity strategic vision. An organization can use these aspects independently to address immediate tactical issues while it develops its broader strategy. The target areas include a view from the perspective of data management, absence program design and management, employee health and wellness, and behavioral health. PMID: 21879609 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5194642 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 11:20:02 +0100 5194642 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5194641&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21879610%26dopt%3DAbstract This article identifies and analyzes seven areas in the new law that could indirectly impact HSAs. PMID: 21879610 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5194641 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 11:20:02 +0100 5194641 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5194640&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21879611%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Abstract Zurich Am. Ins. Co. v. O'Hara, 604 F3d 1232, 49 EBC. (BNA) 1018, (11th Cir. 2010). Court upheld Zurich's right to reimbursement for medical expenses from the proceeds of any full or partial recovery given the explicit plan language so providing "regardless of whether the covered person has been fully compensated or made whole." PMID: 21879611 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5194640 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 11:20:02 +0100 5194640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5194639&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21879612%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Abstract LaAsmar v. Phelps Dodge Corp. Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment & Dependent Life Ins. Plan, 605 F3d 789, 2010 WL 1794437(10th Cir. 2010). A death caused by an alcohol-related automobile collision qualifies as an "accident" that would require payment of accidental death and dismemberment plan benefits. PMID: 21879612 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5194639 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 11:20:02 +0100 5194639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4763365&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21513224%26dopt%3DAbstract This article examines the attitudes of near-retirees regarding these risks and their plans for managing them. The author discusses how DC plan design can have a major impact on how individuals convert their retirement savings to retirement income; differences in survey responses between those who have consulted a financial advisor or other financial professional and those who have not; and the role of trust in implementing advice. PMID: 21513224 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4763365 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 15:30:03 +0100 4763365 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4763364&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21513225%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 21513225 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4763364 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 15:30:03 +0100 4763364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4763363&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21513226%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 21513226 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4763363 Fri, 29 Apr 2011 15:30:03 +0100 4763363 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4534705&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21341637%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Stein KA, Thompson M To prosper in the coming years, companies will need to reassess current strategies and approaches related to talent management, total rewards and health benefits in light of the market-driven equilibrium emerging from U.S. health reform. This new equilibrium will be shaped by demographic and employment dynamics, U.S. tax policy, continued globalization and new challenges and opportunities in the health care system. Each company's assessment of the most beneficial balance will reflect its unique business dynamics, industry challenges, geography and size. While in some ways companies' approaches will build on the lessons learned and successes over the past few decades, they will also leverage the new opportunities presented in a postreform world. PMID: 2... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4534705 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 07:00:03 +0100 4534705 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4534704&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21341638%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews the mandated benefit and underwriting changes for grandfathered employer group health insurance plans. It then describes the challenges employers face in maintaining grandfathered status and the potential advantages and disadvantages to doing so. Finally, the author demonstrates how the employers' perspective is one where the absence of government information and guidance on complex-related issues prevents employers from making fully informed decisions. In effect, employers are being forced to choose whether to maintain grandfathered status without the benefit of knowing what the final rules are. PMID: 21341638 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4534704 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 07:00:03 +0100 4534704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4534703&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21341639%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Watts T, Cuthbert J The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) has made health care reform a reality. Although many of PPACA's details are still unclear to many employers, and most of the act's major reforms will take effect over the next several years, companies have reason to begin preparing for change and enough information to begin a communications effort with employees. The authors describe a number of immediate actions that employers should take to make the most of their own understanding of PPACA as it develops, as well as help their employee benefits leaders make the most informed decisions about when and how to communicate with employees about the law and its impact on their group health plan coverage. PMID: 21341639 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Bene... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4534703 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 07:00:03 +0100 4534703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4534702&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21341640%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: McDevitt RD, Savan J Account-based health plans (ABHPs), which combine high-deductible plans with either health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs), have gained popularity in recent years. Because there is growing evidence these plans are indeed engaging consumers and moderating cost increases, employers will need ABHP design options as they strive to bring costs under control in coming years. Some observers, however, are now concerned that benefits standards introduced by federal health care reform will undermine these plans, and many in the business community anticipate new health benefits mandates will drive up employers' total health care costs. The authors show that although the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) of 2010 inc... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4534702 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 07:00:03 +0100 4534702 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4534701&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21341641%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews the major issues surrounding these changes, including those affecting retiree health benefits, benefits for Medicare-eligible retirees and health care options for older Americans not yet eligible for Medicare. The authors conclude that although employers will be reacting in 2010 and 2011 with regard to some issues surrounding FASB ASC 715-60 and the early retiree reinsurance program, employers should consider waiting to make major changes until regulations are issued and the health plans for active employees have been fully vetted. PMID: 21341641 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4534701 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 07:00:03 +0100 4534701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4534700&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21341642%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Pudlowski EM Understanding the implications of the new health care reform legislation, including those provisions that do not take effect for several years, will be critical in developing a successful strategic plan under the new environment of health care reform and avoiding unintended consequences of decisions made without the benefit of long-term thinking. Although this article is not a comprehensive assessment of the challenges and opportunities that exist under health care reform, nor a layout of all of the issues, it looks at some of the key areas in order to demonstrate why employers need to identify critical pathways and the associated risks and benefits of each decision. Key health care reform areas include insurance market reforms, grandfather rules, provisions that ... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4534700 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 07:00:03 +0100 4534700 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4534699&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21341643%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sperling KL, Shapira OM The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act includes provisions to make the individual health insurance marketplace one where all Americans, including those with preexisting health conditions, can obtain affordable coverage. At the same time, the act has failed to address, in any significant way, many of the underlying flaws in the current U.S. health care system that have caused costs to spiral out of control. The combination of persistent U.S. health care cost increases and a viable individual health insurance marketplace will cause a sea change in employer-sponsored health care offerings that is similar to that seen among employer-sponsored retirement benefit plans: movement away from defined benefit approaches and toward defined contribution desi... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4534699 Wed, 02 Mar 2011 07:00:03 +0100 4534699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4254138&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21133289%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Poore v. Simpson Paper Co., 2009 U.S. App. LEXIS 11170 (9th Cir. Or. May 21, 2009). To be able to sue under ERISA, retirement health plan participants need not show that their benefits are vested the same way pension benefits are vested; the rights to the benefits need not be fixed or unalterable, rather, the employee must have an entitlement to the benefits. PMID: 21133289 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4254138 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 23:10:04 +0100 4254138 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4254137&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D21133290%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: CSX Transp., Inc. v. Hensley, 2009 U.S. LEXIS 3974 (U.S. June 1, 2009). The ruling in Ayers not only provides for fear-of-cancer damages in some FELA cases, but also for an instruction to the jury on the necessity of finding that the plaintiff's fear was genuine and serious. PMID: 21133290 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4254137 Mon, 13 Dec 2010 23:10:04 +0100 4254137 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3742892&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20608110%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes the primary areas of participant behavior that consumerism seeks to change and the fundamental factors a "consumer-focused" health care strategy must include. The authors outline issues employers must address when designing a successful incentive program and its accompanying communications strategy. A case study of a company that has a 70% enrollment rate in its CDH plans shows how an integrated consumerism and wellness strategy can slow the rate of health care cost increases for both the employee and employer. PMID: 20608110 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3742892 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 02:36:03 +0100 3742892 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3742891&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20608111%26dopt%3DAbstract This article compares and contrasts HSAs to other health care spending accounts, addresses various HSA topics in the context of HSAs' first six years, and speculates on the future of HSAs. The authors identify policy changes that could help expand HSAs, drive further employer savings, make HSAs more user-friendly, impact employee satisfaction and increase adoption rates. PMID: 20608111 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3742891 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 02:36:03 +0100 3742891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3742889&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20608112%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews the birth of the health care consumerism movement and identifies gaps in health care consumerism today. The authors reveal some of the keys to building a sustainable health care consumerism framework, which involves enlisting consumers as well as other stakeholders. PMID: 20608112 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3742889 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 02:36:03 +0100 3742889 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3742888&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20608113%26dopt%3DAbstract This article provides some lessons to guide the course of action for employers considering implementing a consumerist approach to improve employee health and control the cost trend. PMID: 20608113 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3742888 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 02:36:03 +0100 3742888 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3742887&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20608114%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Reindl WJ Do consumer-driven health (CDH) plans have the potential to help create a more affordable, sustainable (i.e., multiyear), high-quality health care system? Or do they merely shift costs and cause individuals to forgo care? For the past four years, CIGNA has compared actual claims data of individuals covered in its CDH plans with those of its traditional health maintenance organization (HMO) and preferred provider organization (PPO) plans, among the same employers. The results consistently show that properly designed CDH plans deliver lower medical and pharmacy costs without sacrificing care or shifting costs. And CDH plans, if designed properly, increase preventive care and, on average, individuals tend to receive a higher level of care while costs are reduced. If hea... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3742887 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 02:36:03 +0100 3742887 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3742886&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20608115%26dopt%3DAbstract This article explains factors underlying low enrollment rates by reviewing the history of CDHPs and examining whether CDHPs have lived up to their initial value proposition in terms of cost reduction and consumer behavioral change. The author identifies the sentinel effect that CDHP concepts have had on traditional plans and where further actions and developments are needed to change employee behaviors and increase enrollment in CDHPs. PMID: 20608115 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3742886 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 02:36:03 +0100 3742886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3742885&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20608116%26dopt%3DAbstract This article first looks at the ongoing health reform debate to see the limited impact it will have on consumer-driven health care. It also looks at the current limits of the reform conversation, within the context of several societal trends that will collectively drive the longer-term development of consumer-driven plans. While health reform may tinker around the edges of what tools are available, these broader trends all point toward greater and greater consumer involvement in both health and health care. At issue is whether the current consumer-driven model can adapt to accommodate these changes. PMID: 20608116 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3742885 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 02:36:03 +0100 3742885 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3742884&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20608117%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 20608117 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3742884 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 02:36:03 +0100 3742884 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3742882&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20608118%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 20608118 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3742882 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 02:36:03 +0100 3742882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3742881&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20608119%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 20608119 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3742881 Mon, 12 Jul 2010 02:36:03 +0100 3742881 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3663260&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20540275%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lafleur v. La. Health Serv. & Indem. Co., 563 F.3d 148, 2009 U.S. App. LEXIS 6104: The health plan administrator that had failed to raise new grounds for denying benefits to the plan participant prior to the start of litigation did not substantially comply with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act's (ERISA) requirement of notice to the participant, containing reasons for the denial of benefits. PMID: 20540275 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3663260 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 23:51:03 +0100 3663260 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3663259&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D20540276%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Halbach v. Great-West Life & Annuity Ins. Co., 561 F3d 872 (8th Cir. Mo. 2009): Because the vesting of benefits is subject to contractual arrangement under an employee benefit plan, summary judgment was improper where a genuine issue of material fact remained as to the settlor's intent to vest benefits. PMID: 20540276 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3663259 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 23:51:03 +0100 3663259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2970459&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19891334%26dopt%3DAbstract This article provides employers with things to keep in mind in order to deliver content that improves employees' benefits literacy, and makes taking desired actions both relevant and easy for employees. PMID: 19891334 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2970459 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:08:04 +0100 2970459 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2970458&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19891335%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: A pension plan whose terms are those of a bona fide seniority system and which treats pregnancy leave, taken before the addition of the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) to Title VII, differently than other kinds of medical leave, does not amount to sex and pregnancy discrimination under Title VII because PDA does not apply retroactively. PMID: 19891335 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2970458 Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:08:04 +0100 2970458 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528545&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19408445%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: An ERISA plan administrator, whether it is an insurance company or a self-insured employer, has a conflict of interest if it both decides who receives benefits and makes benefits payments. That conflict of interest is one factor that should be taken into account in determining whether the administrator has abused its discretion in a case. PMID: 19408445 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528545 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 12:46:03 +0100 2528545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528543&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19408446%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: When an ERISA plan administrator delegates his discretionary authority to render plan benefit decisions to a third party, even one that is not a fiduciary, de novo review is not triggered when litigation arises. Rather, the standard for review is the "arbitrary and capricious"standard as set by the US. Supreme Court's 1989 decision in Firestone Tire and Rubber Co. v. Bruch. PMID: 19408446 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528543 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 12:46:03 +0100 2528543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528541&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19408447%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Plaintiffs are not entitled to emotional distress damages under the Labor-Management Relations Act (LMRA) when an employer breaches a collective bargaining agreement by failing to provide retiree health benefits. Plaintiffs may recover damages for the cost of replacement insurance incurred as a result of such a breach. PMID: 19408447 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528541 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 12:46:03 +0100 2528541 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2528539&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19408448%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: A state or local ordinance is not preempted by ERISA if it does not bind plan administrators to structure plans in a certain way or mandate that they provide specific benefits to employees. A local law could be preempted if it contains specific provisions relating to ERISA, or the operation of the law itself depends upon ERISA. PMID: 19408448 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2528539 Sat, 27 Jun 2009 12:46:03 +0100 2528539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2018971&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19048742%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes how the pharmacy benefit building blocks of delivery (dispensing), provider contracting, drug products and benefit design all have to work together to produce a more effective pharmacy benefit program. PMID: 19048742 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2018971 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 17:12:03 +0100 2018971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2018970&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19048743%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Golden J First DataBank (FDB) is the prescription drug industry's largest publisher of average wholesale price (AWP) data, which is used to derive drug prices at the consumer end of the U.S. drug distribution system. In 2006, FDB agreed to a tentative legal settlement after allegations it engaged in questionable activities that cost millions of consumers and third-party payers an extra $7 billion between August 2001 and March 2005. The potential impact of the proposed settlement is projected to be far-reaching; however, settlement details still require final approval by the court. PMID: 19048743 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2018970 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 17:12:03 +0100 2018970 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2018969&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19048744%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Jacobs MS In the United States today, most citizens receive their health care through programs sponsored and financed by their employers rather than through primarily government-based funding. With this in mind, 85% of U.S. employer survey respondents indicated their health care programs are an investment in their employees from which they expect a return. With the many new pharmaceutical therapies that have been developed and marketed in this country that treat small populations suffering from rare or previously untreatable diseases such as multiple sclerosis, inflammatory diseases and treatments for various types of cancer, employers have found themselves in an uncomfortable position. The costs of these pharmaceutical therapies can reach $5,000 per month or more, but the lon... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2018969 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 17:12:03 +0100 2018969 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2018968&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19048745%26dopt%3DAbstract This article presents employer experiences, identifies important issues for those considering value-based pharmacy benefits and suggests ways to overcome barriers to implementation. PMID: 19048745 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2018968 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 17:12:03 +0100 2018968 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2018967&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19048746%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reports results from a 2007 national employer survey on pharmacy benefits and describes how the Dx-Rx innovation can keep patients and their doctors on track when it comes to controlling disease and driving down overall medical costs. PMID: 19048746 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2018967 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 17:12:03 +0100 2018967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2018966&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D19048747%26dopt%3DAbstract This article provides ten points human resource (HR) and benefit professionals should know when considering whether to add an HSA plan. In this collective learning curve, the more accurately employers address questions, the happier their employees will be with their new plans. PMID: 19048747 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2018966 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 17:12:03 +0100 2018966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590481&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18543832%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes the many ways to reduce those liabilities without eliminating retiree medical plan benefits altogether. Now is the time for employees and employers to work together and make difficult choices for keeping retiree medical costs and GASB 45 liabilities manageable. PMID: 18543832 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590481 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:50:04 +0100 1590481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590480&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18543833%26dopt%3DAbstract This article presents what the authors believe to be the first study to analyze a large sample of claims data and to look in detail at different types of utilization among enrollees in a CDHP and those in a traditional comprehensive major medical (CMM) plan. After adjusting for the finding that CDHP enrollees are both younger and healthier than those in CMM plans, the authors found that CDHP enrollees show no consistent or significant utilization differences for measures over which consumers have little control (e.g., inpatient stays); lower utilization for measures over which consumers have greater control (e.g., emergency room visits); and higher utilization of preventive services. PMID: 18543833 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590480 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:50:04 +0100 1590480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590479&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18590178%26dopt%3DAbstract This article defines program effectiveness and describes the specific activities of employers that have implemented successful H&P strategies leading to improved health, increased productivity and lower benefit costs-and, in turn, higher levels of performance, returns to shareholders and market premium. PMID: 18590178 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590479 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:50:04 +0100 1590479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590478&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18590179%26dopt%3DAbstract This article provides an overview of the key considerations for employers seeking to maximize the value of incentive rewards. Discussion includes incentive strategies, types of rewards, reward amounts and regulatory considerations under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). PMID: 18590179 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590478 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:50:04 +0100 1590478 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590477&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18590180%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Clark AD Businesses should focus on a proactive solution to rising health care costs, using integrated wellness programs that emphasize condition management and total health and well-being. If corporations wish to remain competitive, profitable and successful in attracting and retaining topnotch talent from all generations, they are going to have to start investing in and thinking creatively about wellness offerings. Not only do wellness programs have a proven track record of success in reducing health care costs, they also resonate loud and clear with modern-day employees who are determined to work for a company that understands their needs and is willing to make progress with the employee's best interests in mind. PMID: 18590180 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Qu... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590477 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:50:04 +0100 1590477 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590476&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18590181%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes the sharp rise in recent years of consumer-directed health plans (CDHPs) and explains what developments must happen for genuine consumer-directed health care to realize its full potential. These developments include gathering transparent health care information, increasing consumer demand for that information and creating truly intuitive data solutions that allow consumers to easily access information in order to make better health care decisions. PMID: 18590181 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590476 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:50:04 +0100 1590476 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590475&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18590182%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes the many ways different employers do wellness, the evidence base for wellness, how employers should target wellness candidates, and the elements of success and failure for wellness initiatives. PMID: 18590182 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590475 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:50:04 +0100 1590475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590474&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D18590183%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes the four cornerstones of the EO and explains how they will translate into corporate action and value. PMID: 18590183 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590474 Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:50:04 +0100 1590474 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590497&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17444082%26dopt%3DAbstract This article discusses areas that employers must address now to avoid significant long-term financial and compliance problems in the future. PMID: 17444082 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590497 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590496&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17444083%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: The Supreme Court, in a 5-4 decision, ruled that federal courts lack jurisdiction over a suit brought by a federal employee health plan administrator seeking reimbursement of benefits covered by a personal injury settlement. PMID: 17444083 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590496 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590495&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17444084%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: The Supreme Court, in a per curium decision, vacated a ruling against an air traffic controller in his claim that he was subjected to more than random drug testing and remanded the matter to the Ninth Circuit to determine whether the petitioner exhausted his administrative remedies and whether exhaustion is required, or, if necessary, whether the Civil Service Reform Act precludes employees from pursuing claims beyond those set out in that act, i.e., whether Congress intended to remove such actions from the general grant of subject matter jurisdiction under 28 U.S.C. paragraph 1331. PMID: 17444084 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590495 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590494&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17621957%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes how employers can help workers understand changes and, through effective change management and communication, successfully navigate in an evolving benefits world. Using recent survey research about large employer and employee attitudes, the authors demonstrate tangible proof that these efforts pay off, both in financial and cultural terms. PMID: 17621957 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590494 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590493&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17621958%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Wiley P The topic of employees taking responsibility for their own benefits planning can be exasperating to human resource professionals and employers. But make no mistake: The topic is a vital one for employees and employers alike. Based on the experiences of financial counselors who provide independent financial counseling to more than two million employees of large organizations, this article presents the top ten mistakes employees make and suggests how human resource professionals can help employees avoid those mistakes. PMID: 17621958 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590493 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590492&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17621959%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Domaszewicz A Consumerism and care management continue to make inroads as cost-containment strategies for employers, as well as for employees who have endured the steady rise in benefit cost-shifting. The latest statistics and trends point the way to a new era of personal responsibility in health benefits. The author describes how this trend has grown, and where it is leading. PMID: 17621959 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590492 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590491&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17621960%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews the evolution of benefit plans and what has arisen as the current state of employee benefits. It then discusses steps employers can take to build a successful total benefit strategy that recognizes the importance of the emerging workforce's racial, ethnic and cultural diversity. PMID: 17621960 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590491 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590490&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17621961%26dopt%3DAbstract This article discusses the experience of four organizations that implemented the "new deal" of increased employee responsibility while also balancing employee needs. PMID: 17621961 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590490 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590489&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17621962%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 17621962 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590489 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590488&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17886729%26dopt%3DAbstract This article provides context for the U.S. health care financing debate by examining the health care systems of five other countries: Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, China and India. The authors show that, with few exceptions, countries around the world have seen an increase in both government and private health care spending between 1998 and 2002. The authors also demonstrate that employers throughout most of the world are becoming more, rather than less, involved in the funding and delivery of health care to employees and their dependents-even among nations with so-called single-payer health systems. PMID: 17886729 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590488 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590488 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590487&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17886730%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Litow ME Since their introduction following World War II, single-payer health care systems and universally mandated health care systems have stumbled, but in their pratfalls are many lessons that apply to the universal health care proposals currently on the table in the United States. The critical and often-over-looked point is that universal coverage does not guarantee that individuals will receive needed care--In many cases guaranteed access to care is a false promise or available only on a delayed timetable. A more feasible alternative lies in providing a safety net for citizens who truly need care and financial support with an appropriate system of checks and balances--without disrupting the economic and actuarial fundamental principles of supply and demand and risk classi... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590487 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590486&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17886731%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Forman JB The current U.S. health care system distorts individual decisions about work and retirement. After a brief explanation of how the current health care system works, this article reviews those distortions and considers how individuals would respond to the implementation of a universal health care system. The author argues that the likely adverse impacts of an employer health insurance mandate on low-skilled workers could be more than offset by a well-designed system of government subsidies. PMID: 17886731 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590486 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590485&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17886732%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Kingson ER, Cornman JM While other industrial nations' health care systems have their own problems, they have more leeway to address those problems than does the United States, which spends twice as much on per capita health care as the average for other industrial capitalist democracies yet ranks average or below average in many comparative measures of health care quality. In fact, the authors of this article argue that international experience shows that assurance of universal access through expanded government involvement could provide savings while actually improving the quality of U.S. health care. In addition, universal access would recognize health care as a basic human right, not a commodity to be bartered in the marketplace and allocated based on class, race and socia... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590485 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590485 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590484&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17886733%26dopt%3DAbstract This article focuses on the use of employee contributions as a strategic tool within employee health plans. While most employers require some form of employee contributions for health care, there is no clear "one-size-fits-all" solution. A myriad of strategies are in place, some active and some passive. This article reviews both common and emerging strategies and how they differ based on industry, employer size and region; discusses how employee contribution strategy fits within overall benefits strategy; and provides a strategic framework for approaching employee contributions in the future. PMID: 17886733 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590484 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590484 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590483&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17886734%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 17886734 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590483 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590482&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17886735%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 17886735 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590482 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1590482 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590521&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16792387%26dopt%3DAbstract This article explores economic aspects of the market for long-term care (LTC) in Japan. As the world's most rapidly aging nation, it is of interest to understand that country's current LTC system and projections of LTC utilization patterns and costs, as well as their potential drivers. Since Japan appears likely to experience important shortfalls in LTC in the future, the authors also discuss alternate forms of provision. PMID: 16792387 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590521 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590521 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590520&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16792388%26dopt%3DAbstract This article examines some scenarios and cultural anomalies that invalidate commonly accepted domestic health insurance practices. It explores strategies for simplifying benefit design, providing access to quality care abroad, assessing costs, minimizing overseas risks and understanding the cultural impact on health care delivery. PMID: 16792388 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590520 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590520 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590519&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16792389%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Coulter CH Employers' past solutions to rising health benefit costs--adopting managed care strategies, cost shifting to employees and reducing benefits-are no longer effectively controlling costs and are depressing the value of health benefits for employee recruitment and retention. An alternative strategy is to implement health management approaches that improve the health status of employees. These programs reduce medical costs and have a documented positive impact on workers' compensation, disability costs, absenteeism and productivity. Further, this approach is complementary to health care consumerism as a strategy for health improvement and benefit cost reduction and results in improved employee health, outlook and satisfaction. PMID: 16792389 [PubMed - indexed for ME... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590519 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590518&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16792390%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Born PH, Zawacki AM The trend for employers to discontinue offering retiree health insurance has profound implications for a large and growing share of the U.S. older population. The authors explore factors related to the firm's decision to offer and contribute to retiree health insurance using data from manufacturing firms. Their findings indicate that while firm characteristics, such as size and age, affect the probability that a firm offers retiree health insurance, employer contributions to this benefit are significantly related to the firm's financial performance and the alternative insurance options available in the market. The article concludes with a brief discussion of policy-related measures with potentially important implications for the future of retiree health ben... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590518 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590517&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16792391%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hall MA Concerns about employer liability are a major public policy barrier to expanding tort liability for managed health care organizations. To evaluate the extent of these legal concerns, interviews were conducted with key informants, selected to represent a range of legal and demographic characteristics nationwide. These subjects reported a low level of existing concern about liability arising from managed health care, and few indicated that an increase in this threat would likely cause them to drop health benefits. Instead, most said employers would take a wait-and-see approach to theoretical liability threats and would consider responses short of dropping coverage, such as switching to fully insured health benefits, or from defined benefits to defined contributions. ... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590517 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590516&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16792392%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 16792392 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590516 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590515&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16827539%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews the changing health and retirement plan landscape, and describes the plans, products and features available to the baby boom generation. It then describes how employers can become educators in order to help boomers best manage their increased responsibility for their health care and retirement. PMID: 16827539 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590515 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590515 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590514&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16827540%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Sharon CW, Donahue T Lessons learned from the past five years' growth of the consumer-driven health movement bodes well for its longevity in the marketplace. The authors of this article review the results achieved by early adopters of consumer-driven health initiatives and the success strategies they've used in the areas of plan design, pricing, integration with wellness initiatives, communication and vendor selection. They conclude with a case example of how a transportation service company experienced substantial consumer-driven health plan enrollment and achieved a significant number of the key predictive success steps along the way. PMID: 16827540 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590514 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590514 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590513&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16827541%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Thompson M, Checkley J Consumer-driven health care is a misnomer. Notwithstanding the enormous role the individual consumer has to play in reshaping the U.S. health care delivery system, this article will focus on the employer as the key driver of change and innovation in the consumerism revolution. American Standard provides a case study of how one major employer has evaluated health care in the context of its business and aggressively integrated consumerism and health into the core of its business. Other companies will appropriately execute consumerism strategies in a fashion consistent with their own needs, culture, resources and populations. However, the principles supporting those strategies will be very much consistent. PMID: 16827541 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590513 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590513 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590512&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16827542%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes why consumer-based strategies have taken hold and how consumer-driven plan design and financial incentives are of only limited value in controlling costs. After reviewing the importance and availability of existing health care information, the authors suggest actions employers can take to ensure consumer-driven plans reach their potential. PMID: 16827542 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590512 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590512 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590511&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16827543%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes how account-based approaches work and can be used to motivate employees to invest in their health today and salt away funds for tomorrow. The author describes what employers can do to ensure that consumer-driven health plans and account-based approaches help employees accomplish their goals. PMID: 16827543 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590511 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590511 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590510&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16827544%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews the growth of these strategies and the different ways employers have implemented them. The author then delineates the ten key ways that consumerism may affect companies over the next five- to ten-year time period, as these strategies continue to move health benefits toward greater transparency, flexibility and accountability. PMID: 16827544 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590510 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590510 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590509&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16827545%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 16827545 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590509 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590509 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590508&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17039817%26dopt%3DAbstract This article addresses those concerns. It provides a historical overview of Medicare Part C and describes the impact of the most recent agency guidance. The author cites plan trends, raises employer implications and concludes that Medicare Advantage plans will continue to expand, possibly facilitated by employers as they implement leading-edge retiree medical designs. PMID: 17039817 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590508 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590508 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590507&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17039818%26dopt%3DAbstract This article discusses the complex financial, administrative and communication issues an employer must ponder. For instance, short-term cash savings must be weighed against longer term accounting implications; yet the best financial alternative may come with other baggage that offsets the dollar savings. The author uses data to show what employers have done to date and raises unresolved issues employers must address as Medicare Part D evolves. PMID: 17039818 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590507 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590507 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590506&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17039819%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes the options available to employers now that Medicare Part D is in place. Through this analysis, the authors also explain how the choices employers make could affect retiree medical benefits and workforce planning issues. PMID: 17039819 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590506 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590506 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590505&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17039820%26dopt%3DAbstract This article discusses the strategic approach to crafting retiree health policy as the Medicare landscape continues to evolve. PMID: 17039820 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590505 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590505 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590504&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17039821%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 17039821 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590504 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590504 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590503&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17039822%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 17039822 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590503 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590503 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590502&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17286055%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lucas L, Steinberg A Recognizing that 401(k) plans are emerging as many employees' sole source of employer-sponsored retirement income, plan sponsors are increasingly adding paternalistic plan features to increase the amount--and effectiveness--of dollars invested in 401(k) accounts. The authors describe the results of a study they prepared for Hewitt Associates that assesses retirement income adequacy for individuals represented in a plan participant database of 1.8 million individuals. The study includes analysis of retirement income adequacy for the aggregate population as well as the results for different subgroups, reflecting factors such as whether individuals actively contribute; the impact of different levels of retiree medical coverage; and the presence of a defined b... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590502 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590502 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590501&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17286056%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: In an absence of special circumstances, the automatic stay that protects an employer from suit while its bankruptcy is pending does not apply to an action brought against its employee welfare benefit plan under ERISA because the plan, not the employer, is the proper entity to sue for benefits. Similarly, the employer's automatic stay does not apply to the individual fiduciary sued for breach of fiduciary duty in administering the plan. The bankrupt employer has no property interest in either the plan assets or the assets of the individual fiduciary and, therefore, the stay does not protect them from suit. PMID: 17286056 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590501 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590501 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590500&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17286057%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: A claim to enforce a reimbursement provision or a separate promise to reimburse a plan out of recovery from a responsible third party cannot be brought in federal court under ERISA, because it is a legal claim for monetary damages and ERISA allows fiduciaries to bring suit only for equitable relief However, a claim for reimbursement of medical benefits paid from a third-party settlement is a state law breach-of-contract claim that cannot be removed to federal court and is not preempted by ERISA. Thus, a plan can bring an action in state court for breach of contract against a participant or beneficiary who fails to reimburse the plan for medical benefits paid when he or she recovers from a third party in a settlement or through a judgment, as required by a reimbursement provis... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590500 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590500 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590499&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17286058%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: The Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) statute does not provide individuals whose medical costs have been paid for by Medicare with a right of recovery against alleged tortfeasors (wrongdoers). Tobacco companies are not self-insured primary plans under the MSP statute because they have no existing contractual obligation to pay the health care costs of those injured by smoking. PMID: 17286058 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590499 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590498&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D17288019%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Even though an insurer provided telephone notice of termination of a group health plan's insurance coverage for failure to pay the required premium on the same day the employer filed a bankruptcy petition and gave written notice after the petition was filed, it did not violate the bankruptcy code's automatic stay provision. This is because a special payment plan provided for an extended grace period and automatic termination upon failure to pay the premium in full by the end of that period, and the final due date was before the debtor filed the petition. Thus, termination occurred automatically before the bankruptcy petition was filed. The insurer is not the plan administrator and is not obligated to provide COBRA notice to the debtor's employees, especially since the employe... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590498 Sun, 01 Jan 2006 05:00:00 +0100 1590498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590549&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15825631%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Eber BL By grading pharmacy benefit managers' (PBMs') performance using an objective evaluation process, employers can identify specific opportunities and establish measurable goals to define efficient drug utilization. Many employers come away from the grading process with a similar conclusion--Increased generic dispensing is a must for achieving delivery of an affordable prescription drug benefit. By focusing on the conditions that affect their population, employers are ensuring that PBMs implement practical programs that make it easy for physicians to prescribe affordable high-value drugs. PMID: 15825631 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590549 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590549 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590548&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15825632%26dopt%3DAbstract This article examines how modern-day coalitions are bringing classic aggregation theory into the 21st century and the reasons behind the growing popularity of employee benefit coalitions. It also suggests several strategic initiatives that human resource (HR) and benefit managers can take within their own organization to unlock the power of the coalition movement toward a better, more efficient buying model. PMID: 15825632 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590548 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590548 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590547&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15825633%26dopt%3DAbstract This article explores the prevalence, plan design, financial implications, administrative and other considerations in implementing a spousal surcharge program. PMID: 15825633 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590547 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590547 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590546&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15825634%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 15825634 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590546 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590546 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590545&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15977747%26dopt%3DAbstract This article discusses how employers can overcome employees' behavioral barriers to making integrated employee benefit decisions by changing the ways benefits are communicated and employees are presented with action decisions. Undertaking these steps allows employers to not only improve their employees' overall financial perspectives, but also furthers plan sponsors' goals of actively promoting personal responsibility with respect to retirement funding and changing employee behavior with respect to controlling health care costs. PMID: 15977747 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590545 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590544&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15977748%26dopt%3DAbstract This article advises employers on how to make their company a great place to work for all generations. PMID: 15977748 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590544 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590544 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590543&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15977749%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes what those surveys reveal about employer and employee perspectives on consumerism and suggests steps employers can take to align their interests with those of their employees in order to manage the demand for and use of health care. PMID: 15977749 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590543 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590542&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15977750%26dopt%3DAbstract This article outlines the steps involved in a complete review of risk assessment. It then discusses how employers can develop successful change management communication strategies if, after conducting a risk assessment, employers decide to move forward with alterations to their employee benefits programs. PMID: 15977750 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590542 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590541&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15977751%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 15977751 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590541 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590541 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590540&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15977752%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 15977752 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590540 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590540 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590539&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15977753%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 15977753 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590539 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590539 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590538&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16248225%26dopt%3DAbstract This article explains how employers can implement an IHRM program to significantly lower health care costs to a degree unattainable through traditional cost-control strategies, while simultaneously raising workers' productivity and well-being. PMID: 16248225 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590538 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590538 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590537&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16248226%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Pronk S The trend of increasing health care costs over the past several years shows no signs of slowing down. While employers have attempted to address the issue with various cost-shifting and cost-sharing initiatives to relieve the burden, those attempts have often fallen short. In today's fiscally scrutinized benefits environment, the emphasis needs to be more strategic. The management of employee health and productivity needs to move to a more encompassing organizational view that addresses the most expensive drivers of these costs head-on, with prevention, education and employee responsibility as key tenets. Organizations that make the move--by implementing programs to maintain, improve and manage their population's health--will enjoy substantial cost savings and enhanced ... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590537 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590537 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590536&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16248227%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews the alternatives available to employers with the advent of Medicare Part D and highlights some of the key factors employers should consider as part of this decision. PMID: 16248227 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590536 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590536 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590535&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16248228%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Maio V, Hartmann CW, Goldfarb NI, Roumm AR, Nash DB Some employers have begun to undertake a variety of initiatives, collectively termed value-based purchasing (VBP), which aim at factoring quality into the purchasing decision-making process when negotiating costs with providers and insurers. There is evidence that the VBP movement has begun gaining momentum; yet it is unclear whether employers are firmly committed to VBP principles. By surveying a national sample of employers, this study investigates the extent to which employers are currently engaged in VBP activities and also increases our understanding of barriers hampering the broader implementation of these activities. PMID: 16248228 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590535 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590535 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590534&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16248229%26dopt%3DAbstract This article argues that as companies continue to evaluate the transition alternatives under AJCA and contemplate the necessary changes to the plan program, companies also should consider simultaneously addressing broader issues surrounding nonqualified deferred compensation arrangements. These include ongoing business purpose, financial planning considerations, education of participants, corporate governance considerations and the potential implications to international assignees. PMID: 16248229 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590534 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590534 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590533&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16248230%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 16248230 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590533 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590533 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590532&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16248231%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 16248231 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590532 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590532 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590531&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16248232%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 16248232 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590531 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590530&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16248233%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 16248233 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590530 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590530 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590529&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16250087%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 16250087 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590529 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590529 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590528&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16524034%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Rappaport AM, Dragut M The retirement world of the future is challenging because of the decline in defined benefit plans, low savings rates in the United States, increased longevity and the failure of many people to effectively plan for retirement. Drawing on a variety of studies and public opinion surveys, the authors of this article explain why a system that relies too much on people providing for themselves will have segments of the population who have inadequate retirement incomes due to a number of gaps, which pose the most risk at advanced ages. These gaps can occur because of difficulties in managing postretirement risk, acquiring inadequate savings in the first place and problematic public perceptions about retirement income risks. PMID: 16524034 [PubMed - indexed ... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590528 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590527&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16524035%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Timmermann S Survey findings indicate that members of the Silent Generation--those born between 1933 and 1945, and perhaps the last ones to rely heavily on a defined benefit pension plan--feel confident that they will have enough money to live comfortably to at least the age of 85. Yet, many are at risk of outliving their retirement assets. They overestimate their Social Security payouts and the likelihood that they will work in retirement, and they underestimate their postretirement expenses, especially health care. Many lack safeguards against overspending and do not understand their longevity risk. The Silents' experiences in preparing for and living in retirement may offer some valuable lessons to be learned by the baby boomers and the generations that follow as they plan ... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590527 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590526&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16524036%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mulvey J Any discussion about the prospects of retirement security for the baby boomers must take into account the potentially devastating costs of future long-term care (LTC) services. Although the market for LTC insurance is growing, baby boomers' misperceptions about LTC persist, and the market for LTC insurance must be expanded. The author presents analysis showing that LTC insurance is affordable for the majority of workers, describes the current state of employer-sponsored LTC insurancebenefits and outlines policies to encourage LTC insurance. PMID: 16524036 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590526 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590526 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590525&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16524037%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 16524037 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590525 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590525 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590524&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16524038%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 16524038 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590524 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590524 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590523&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16524039%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 16524039 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590523 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590523 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590522&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D16524040%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 16524040 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590522 Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:00:00 +0100 1590522 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590573&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15015424%26dopt%3DAbstract This article highlights some of the ways that sales organizations stumble in managing their compensation programs, and why it takes more than a simple tactical fix to address these problems effectively. The authors describe a more structured governance framework that not only identifies and resolves key sales compensation issues, but ultimately safeguards the effectiveness and financial integrity of the sales organization itself. PMID: 15015424 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590573 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590573 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590572&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15015425%26dopt%3DAbstract This article looks at the implications of imposing business associate contract obligations on an integrated HR and benefits-outsourcing recordkeeper and cautions employers against an overly broad application of the requirements. PMID: 15015425 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590572 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590571&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15015426%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: PMID: 15015426 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590571 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590570&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15146748%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Maillet P, Halterman S Employers' reluctance to implement consumer-driven health plans (CDHPs) is at least in part due to their not understanding how to define and measure the success of CDHPs. To assist employers, the authors define potential points of success for CDHPs in the areas of consumer engagement, consumer financial considerations and employee health and productivity. They then offer ways of measuring success in those areas, as well as in the area of employer cost control. By taking a carefully considered approach to the decision of whether to offer a CDHP, employers can grasp potential opportunities to control health care costs. PMID: 15146748 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590570 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590570 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590569&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15146749%26dopt%3DAbstract This article reviews the factors leading to the need for consumer-driven health care and describes the characteristics and benefits of its current and next generations of development. PMID: 15146749 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590569 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590568&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15146750%26dopt%3DAbstract This article identifies those risks and shows employers how they can reduce them without compromising the overall cost-control potential of CDHPs. A good CDHP strategy should work on both the demand and supply sides of the market. PMID: 15146750 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590568 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590567&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15146751%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Lair T To combat rising health care costs and a society increasingly unsatisfied with employer-sponsored health care services, reDefined Contribution Health Care suggests a process to create a more consumer-driven health care market. To create this value-sensitive market requires a planned, staged approach that will include immediate actions and work toward fundamental, long-term changes. PMID: 15146751 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590567 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590567 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590566&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15146752%26dopt%3DAbstract This article debunks common employer misconceptions about employees' attitudes and behaviors with regard to health care. It then discusses the results employers can obtain by taking specific initiatives that provide employees with the motivation and resources they need to effectively manage health risks and make informed health care decisions. PMID: 15146752 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590566 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590565&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15146753%26dopt%3DAbstract This article describes the elements of a comprehensive consumer-driven health care strategy and provides examples of tangible consumer-driven health care initiatives in the areas of design, pricing, contracting, support and public policy. PMID: 15146753 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590565 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590564&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15146754%26dopt%3DAbstract This article examines the evolution of consumer-driven health benefits--including the experience of the first generation of "defined contribution" health care participants (i.e., retirees) and the results of different approaches employers have taken to early consumer-driven plan designs. The author then describes what's needed to answer the question: "Can consumer-driven health care control health cost?" PMID: 15146754 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590564 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590563&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15453198%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Gibons A Because advances in genetic medicine are likely to affect the cost and delivery of employer-sponsored health care, plan managers require a basic understanding of related services. By describing and analyzing a survey of health plan managers, the author shows where they may need more information about genetic services in order to negotiate coverage and make informed purchasing decisions. Given these current information gaps, genetic counselors may be helpful to health plan managers by providing information and quality assurance about genetic medicine as it continues to integrate itself into medical practice and as plan managers seek cost-containment approaches in the face of rising health care costs. PMID: 15453198 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Q... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590563 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590562&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15453199%26dopt%3DAbstract "Any Willing Provider" laws not preempted by Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). Kentucky Association of Health Plans, Inc. et. al. v. Miller, Commissioner, Kentucky Department of Insurance. Benefits Q. 2004;20(3):69-70 Authors: "Any Willing Provider" laws are not preempted by ERISA because they are state laws regulating insurance if they are (1) specifically directed toward entities engaged in insurance and (2) substantially affect the risk-pooling arrangement between the insurer and the insured. Thus, a state may prohibit health maintenance organizations (HMOs) from creating exclusive "provider networks" of doctors, hospitals and other health care providers by excluding other providers who are "willing and able" to comply with all the HMO's contractual terms if ... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590562 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590561&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15453200%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: ERISA does not require the administrator of an employee welfare plan to give special deference to a claimant's treating physician's opinion for purposes of determining eligibility for disability benefits. Nevertheless, administrators may not arbitrarily refuse to credit a claimant's treating physician's opinion or any other reliable evidence. PMID: 15453200 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590561 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590560&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15453201%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: SSA's interpretation of the Social Security Act and its regulation requiring that eligibility for benefits requires that an applicant be both impaired and unable to engage in substantial gainful activity (work) for at least 12 months was permitted by the act and the regulation was lawful. SSA was entitled to the benefit of hindsight, and even though an individual might have been awarded benefits under the act if the decision were made before the end of 12 months because the impairment and inability to work could be expected to last at least 12 months, it could deny benefits when it makes its decision after 12 months from the onset of the impairment and knows the applicant was able to work after 11 months. PMID: 15453201 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Qua... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590560 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590559&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15453202%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Control is the touchstone for determining whether an individual is an employee for the purpose of determining if a business entity is a "covered entity" subject to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Thus, if shareholder-directors operate independently and manage the business, they are proprietors and not employees, but if they are subject to the firm's control, they are employees. All the incidents of the relationship must be considered with no one factor being decisive. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission's (EEOC's) six relevant factors provide the guidelines. PMID: 15453202 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590559 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590559 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590558&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15453203%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Contributions made by professional medical corporations into voluntary employee benefit program plans (VEBAs), which were well in excess of the cost of the term life insurance provided to the participants, were not ordinary and necessary business expenses, and the distributions of surplus cash to owner physicians upon conversion to individual policies constituted constructive dividends taxable to the individual taxpayers. PMID: 15453203 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590558 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590558 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590557&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15453204%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: The federal statute that permits Medicare-substitute HMOs to seek reimbursement from other insurers does not provide the HMOs with a private federal remedy for reimbursement. It permits Medicare-substitute HMOs to provide in their policies that they are entitled to reimbursement in cases where other insurance, such as the third-party liability insurance of a party responsible for causing an injury, is available. The HMO must sue in state court for its contractual right to reimbursement. It may not sue in federal court under the federal statute that merely allows it to provide for reimbursement in their policies. PMID: 15453204 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590557 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590556&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15628614%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Alford S, Farnen DB, Schachet M Compared to previous studies, the 2004 Replacement Ratio Study from Aon Consulting/Georgia State University shows an increase in the amount of income today's workers need at retirement to maintain their preretirement standard of living. After describing the study's replacement ratio findings, the authors estimate lump sums needed at retirement and required adjustments for both nonincreasing annuities and retiree medical expenses. They then describe steps innovative plan sponsors can take to encourage participants to understand and undertake their responsibility to acquire the substantial personal savings needed for a comfortable retirement. PMID: 15628614 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590556 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590556 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590555&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15628615%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Steinberg A, Lucas L While many 401(k) participants at large companies can expect replacement of nearly 100% of preretirement income, not all workers participate in their 401(k) plan. Moreover, the authors show that even among participants, the extent of retirement preparedness depends on defined benefit (DB) plan coverage and retiree medical benefit generosity. Given recent trends in the elimination of DB plans and retiree medical subsidies and the voluntary nature of 401(k) participation, retirement income responsibility is increasingly shifting to workers. The authors discuss how employers might help workers meet their retirement income needs in this changing environment. PMID: 15628615 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590555 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590555 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590554&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15628616%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Schieber SJ Estimating replacement rate targets, and using them to assess the current state of retirement savings adequacy, has been the focus of much attention and analysis. Building on his earlier work published in Benefits Quarterly, the author conceptually defines retirement income adequacy, estimates replacement rate targets and reviews research on the current state of baby boomers' retirement savings. He concludes that, despite existing data limitations, researchers have made considerable strides in recent years in thinking about saving for retirement and the adequacy of workers' preparation for it. These advances suggest that singular rules of thumb for replacement rates are naive and that estimates should take into account the unforeseen risks that individuals face. ... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590554 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590554 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590553&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15628617%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Mills MS, Young ML A range of new factors is responsible for the current problem with insufficient retirement resources. Changes inside and outside the organization share partial responsibility, as do employee behaviors. In addition, other factors simply have been overlooked as employers and employees think about retirement income adequacy. The authors describe the current situation, discuss the significant risks it creates for both employers and employees and advise employers on what they should do to help employees build a more secure future in retirement. PMID: 15628617 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590553 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590553 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590552&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15628618%26dopt%3DAbstract This article examines the risks that individuals face in retirement, describes the role of annuities in addressing those risks and examines why annuitization rates are so low. It then reviews the pension structures in the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand--countries with similar governmental and economic structures to those of the United States--and describes how these have impacted those countries' annuitization rates. PMID: 15628618 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590552 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590551&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15628619%26dopt%3DAbstract Helping tomorrow's retirees manage "distribution phase" risks. Benefits Q. 2004;20(4):57-60 Authors: Daniels B Much of employers' attention has focused on helping employees manage the accumulation of 401(k) plan assets rather than on helping them manage the distribution phase--the period during which employees begin drawing down their 401(k) savings to meet their retirement needs. Assisting employees in managing the distribution phase can play an important role in helping employers meet a range of workforce planning goals and ensuring a maximum return on the retirement dollars that have been invested by both employees and the company. By implementing a properly structured approach to help employees manage the distribution phase, employers can help them maximize the value of the... Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590551 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590551 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1590550&cid=s_37581_4_f&fid=37581&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2Fentrez%2Fquery.fcgi%3Ftmpl%3DNoSidebarfile%26db%3DPubMed%26cmd%3DRetrieve%26list_uids%3D15628620%26dopt%3DAbstract Authors: Hesse KA, Ehrens DR PMID: 15628620 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] (Source: Benefits Quarterly) Benefits Quarterly journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1590550 Thu, 01 Jan 2004 05:00:00 +0100 1590550