Tag

Employers

All articles tagged with #employers

Before hiking workers' healthcare costs, employers should demand hospital efficiency first
health-care-policy8 days ago

Before hiking workers' healthcare costs, employers should demand hospital efficiency first

With employer health-benefit costs projected to rise about 6.7% in 2026, Fortune argues that before asking workers to pay more, large employers should press hospitals to show they’re using current capacity efficiently rather than simply expanding capacity. The piece cites real-world gains from better patient-flow management—Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center reportedly saved about $137 million annually by reorganizing capacity, while The Ottawa Hospital observed fewer deaths and about $9 million in annual savings—demonstrating that scheduling, capacity, and patient flow are operational questions that can curb inflation without compromising care.

California health-insurance costs near $30k for families in 2027
business1 month ago

California health-insurance costs near $30k for families in 2027

PwC’s survey forecasts about a 9% rise in California employer health-insurance premiums in 2027, pushing the average family premium past $30,000 as hospital and drug costs climb and a new Medi‑Cal tax adds to the bill. Employers are shifting costs to workers with higher deductibles and co-pays, potentially slowing wages and hiring, raising prices, and squeezing small businesses and consumers across the state.

Plan Ahead for ICE Visits: A Lawyer's Guide for Employers
business7 months ago

Plan Ahead for ICE Visits: A Lawyer's Guide for Employers

A Minneapolis immigration attorney warns that ICE raids are intensifying in Minnesota and urges employers to prepare by establishing a workplace protocol, restricting access on private property without warrants, role-playing response scenarios, and consulting counsel before responding to government requests, while also informing employees of their constitutional rights to stay silent and seek counsel.

Rising Costs and Access Challenges in Weight Loss Medications
healthcare8 months ago

Rising Costs and Access Challenges in Weight Loss Medications

Employers like HCA Healthcare are dropping coverage for weight loss drugs such as Zepbound and Wegovy due to rising costs and are directing employees to manufacturer discount programs, which may be cheaper than insurance coverage. The growth of direct-to-consumer programs by pharma companies Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk is contributing to this shift, potentially making these drugs less affordable for the general public despite expanding access.

"Minimum Wage Hikes Across 22 States in 2023: Who's Ready for the Change?"
economy2 years ago

"Minimum Wage Hikes Across 22 States in 2023: Who's Ready for the Change?"

Starting January 1st, Minnesota's minimum wage will increase, impacting both employees and employers. The change is part of scheduled wage adjustments to keep up with inflation and cost of living. Employers in the state are preparing for the change, which may involve adjusting their payroll systems, reassessing labor costs, and potentially altering prices or services to maintain profitability. The wage hike aims to help low-income workers but could also challenge small businesses operating on thin margins.

"The Rise of Bosses: Power Dynamics in 2023"
business2 years ago

"The Rise of Bosses: Power Dynamics in 2023"

After years of tension between workers and bosses over remote work and office returns, employers have gained the upper hand in 2023. The weakening economy and cooling labor market have shifted the power balance in favor of employers, leading to mandates for in-person work and monitoring attendance. However, workers have not lost all they fought for, as many have gained greater flexibility, autonomy, and pay. Going forward, the new hybrid work environment is expected to be dictated by employers, although some employees in high-demand sectors may still hold leverage. Until the next economic growth cycle, workers will likely have fewer opportunities to change jobs and less sway in negotiating pay and autonomy.

"Unlocking the Power of AI Skills: Boost Your Salary and Bridge the Knowledge Gap"
technology2 years ago

"Unlocking the Power of AI Skills: Boost Your Salary and Bridge the Knowledge Gap"

A recent study conducted by Access Partnership and Amazon Web Services reveals that workers with AI skills can expect a salary increase of at least 30%. The study surveyed employers and employees across various industries and found that IT, sales and marketing, and operations departments are likely to see the highest pay bumps. Employers estimate that IT workers with AI expertise could receive a 47% salary increase, followed by sales and marketing teams at 38%. The research highlights the increasing value of AI skills in the workplace and the potential for productivity improvements.

"The Resurgence of Boss Power: A Shift in U.S. Offices"
businessemployment2 years ago

"The Resurgence of Boss Power: A Shift in U.S. Offices"

A new workplace trend called "quiet cutting" is emerging in the American job market, where companies reorganize existing employees instead of laying them off or firing them. This approach allows companies to avoid severance packages and potentially save money. While the U.S. job market has been strong, some companies are adopting this trend due to apprehensions about the future. This shift suggests that employers are gaining more control in the workplace.

The Disruptive Cost of New Weight-Loss Drugs: A Warning from Blackstone Exec
healthcare2 years ago

The Disruptive Cost of New Weight-Loss Drugs: A Warning from Blackstone Exec

The rising cost of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, is causing concern among employers, with some fearing it could put them out of business. The drugs have seen a 600% increase in spending across Blackstone's portfolio in the last four years. While effective, these drugs are expensive, with a month's supply costing around $1,000 or more. As more than 40% of Americans are considered to have obesity, the costs to employers and state governments could become overwhelming. Panelists at a healthcare conference agreed that if employers choose to cover the drugs, it should be part of a broader support program that includes nutrition and activity habits and support for side effects.