There are many options at the disposal of an employer who wants to make sure that her workers are cared for and fairly compensated. That's why a robust employee benefits package, stewarded by an experienced benefits specialist, is a very important tool for attracting the best possible workers and retaining those that have displayed a good work ethic and loyalty to an organization.
One trend that has been ongoing throughout the year and is expected to continue in 2012 is, according to the Kansas City Star, the popularity of the high-deductible health insurance plan. Essentially, a deductible means that certain costs, such as doctor's visits and emergency room sessions, will require money out of the pocket of an employee. The higher the deductible, the more that they end up paying.
This may not seem like a great deal for personnel, but it has a silver lining – it often ends up lowering premiums. Premiums are the fees paid on a regular basis to stay on an insurance plan. High deductible plans are becoming more popular because they allow companies to save money and put more funds directly in the accounts of employees. Given that the economy has lowered wages and reduced overall employment, many workers consider low premiums much less important than the size of their paychecks.
