Twenty-five years ago, I started as an assistant for a specialty food retailer’s benefits and risk department. I had an amazing mentor who encouraged me to explore all aspects of benefits, eventually leading me to find my niche in benefits administration. I’ve been in the multi-employer Taft-Hartley world managing benefits for the UA Local 50 Plumbers & Pipefitters Union for the past 17 years.
Fortunately, I work in a benefits role where customer service and administration are still a very personal experience. Real relationships and connections are made, and you witness firsthand the impact your benefits have on plan members and their families. From our self-administered health plan to retirement benefits, I can see the great impact well-thought-out and researched benefit offerings have for our population.
Our benefit plans are governed by a board of trustees equally represented by labor and management. Everyone is a stakeholder, and our members work hard to fund exceptional benefits. Our board focuses on providing benefits that ensure physical and financial wellness for members from apprenticeship through retirement. Benefits are
tailored to our population and all plans are carefully evaluated to maintain financial sustainability.
With an ever-evolving health care system, we’ve recognized the immense need for strong patient advocacy programs to help them navigate all aspects of their health care journey. To help, we have an on-site nurse who assists members with post-procedure and chronic condition compliance, physician and specialist searches, new diagnosis education and identifies community programs promoting health and wellness. This initiative has been well received, helping our members take better care of themselves on the job and at home.
I have an amazing and committed team that, along with managing benefits, handles employer contributions, eligibility, pension and retirement. Our team relies on other industry-leading benefits groups like Employers Health and the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans to keep us up to date on industry trends, clinical updates and legislative developments that may impact our population.
I believe the complexity of employee benefits and health care costs will only continue to increase. Employers should prepare to provide more comprehensive benefits education and personalized support to employees, helping them make full use of the benefits, resources and programs available to them.
Employers Health provides peace of mind when it comes to navigating the complex pharmacy benefit industry with its knowledgeable staff, comprehensive contract negotiations, personable client services team and educational resources. We are grateful for its guidance and take pride in staying informed on industry trends and services. I feel like there is always someone dependable in my corner with Employers Health.
Your education has just begun! This is an ever-changing industry shaped by demographics, legislation and scientific advances. Every day is an opportunity to learn, grow and make a difference in someone’s life.