Press Release: A New Policy Could Increase the Number of Employers Offering Health Care Solutions
Gravie at the forefront of offering a defined contribution approach for employer-sponsored health plans
On June 13, The U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services, Labor, and the Treasury issued new regulations that expand the use of health reimbursement arrangements (HRAs). The policy goes into effect January 1, 2020 and allows employers to contribute on a pre-tax basis towards the cost of employees’ health insurance plans purchased through the individual market. Minneapolis-based health insurance marketplace Gravie, which focuses on supporting businesses with a defined-contribution approach for both individual and group plans, expects this new regulation will drive more employers to offer a health benefits solution, broaden the pool of those participating in the individual market and ultimately drive down costs for beneficiaries.
Gravie continues to lead the way in partnering with businesses to offer the best options for their employees at controlled and reduced costs for the employer and the employee.
“There is no one-size-fits all approach to healthcare. That’s why this defined contribution model of health benefits is becoming more attractive to employers across the country,” said Abir Sen, CEO of Gravie. “It allows business owners to offer choices for their employees and greatly reduce the financial and administrative burden on employers who would otherwise be shopping for a one-size-fits-some benefits plan for their team.”
The new regulation is estimated to benefit over 800,000 employers and more than 11 million employees and family members. Since the Obama administration passed the original Small Employer Health Reimbursement Arrangement (SEHRA), Gravie has been helping businesses take advantage of this provision, assisting employers with strategy, budget, compliance and other administrative hassles that come with providing traditional group benefits. Additionally, with Gravie Care, employees have access to a licensed expert who can help employees do everything from find the right health plan to call claims departments and billing offices on their behalf. With the new regulation, employers of all sizes will be able to contribute to employees’ individual plans without having to worry about tax consequences.
For an interview with Abir, who can provide his take on the new policy, contact ejohnson@gravie.com or visit www.gravie.com to learn more.