February is often filled with symbols of love, but it’s also the perfect time to focus on the most important heart of all—your own. American Heart Month serves as a vital reminder that cardiovascular health is the foundation of a long, vibrant life. Heart disease remains a leading health challenge globally, but the good news … Continued
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was signed into law on July 4, 2025, introducing significant updates to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Following this, the IRS released Notice 2026-5 to provide specific guidance on how these changes expand HSA eligibility and usage. The OBBBA broadens HSA availability through the following key provisions: 1. Permanent … Continued
Building your health care literacy is one of the most powerful ways to take control of your well-being. Health literacy refers to your ability to locate, understand, and apply health information when making decisions about your care. Whether it’s interpreting medical terms or navigating complicated insurance options, strong health literacy can ease stress, prevent confusion, … Continued
Health care costs in the United States continue to rise, increasing pressure on both employers and employees. Organizations that provide health benefits must balance growing expenses with transparency and trust from their workforce. Clear, compassionate communication is key to helping employees understand and navigate these rising costs. Consider these strategies: Craft messaging that is clear, … Continued
In our increasingly busy world, employee expectations are accelerating faster than ever before. A five-year-old benefits strategy simply cannot meet the complex, constant pressures workers face in 2026—be it financial stress, burnout, or caregiving responsibilities. The modern workforce is rejecting generic menus in favor of flexibility, strong financial support, and wellness options that align with … Continued
A Health Savings Account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged savings account designed to help you pay for healthcare expenses. It offers valuable benefits now and in the future — from lowering your current healthcare costs to building long-term savings for retirement. Understand the Basics Triple Tax Advantage: HSAs provide three powerful tax benefits — contributions are … Continued
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued Notice 2025-61, announcing a significant increase to the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) fee amount. Employers with self-insured health plans and health insurance issuers must take note of the new rate and upcoming compliance deadlines. What is the New PCORI Fee Amount? The PCORI fee is increasing to … Continued
THE ANNUAL GAG CLAUSE ATTESTATION DUE DEC. 31, 2025 Under the rules adopted by Congress in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (CAA), group health plans and health insurance issuers of both fully insured and self-funded plans must certify that their contracts with providers, networks, third-party administrators (TPAs), pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), or other service providers … Continued
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued a final rule that requires covered entities—including many health plans—to update their Notice of Privacy Practices (Privacy Notice). This change enhances privacy protections for highly sensitive Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment records. Why the Update is Necessary The HIPAA Privacy Rule already mandates that … Continued
The transition into winter and the busy holiday season often brings two things: cold weather and packed calendars. While the shorter days and festive cheer are welcome, they also present unique challenges to our health, including managing stress, fighting off seasonal illnesses, and maintaining an active routine. Staying healthy this winter isn’t about grand gestures; … Continued
