BIP Summer 2025

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We’ve known for decades that oral care impacts medical outcomes, but that connection hasn’t been translated effectively into

experience working with small to mid-sized businesses. “I just feel like you get a little more for your money with the right dental policy,” she says. “It’s not just about the benefit. It’s about the back-office support, the service, how easy it is for people to use.” For employers, providing dental coverage is often seen as table stakes. According to the Ameritas report, 90% of small firms and 94% of large firms that offer health benefits also offer dental. But a growing number are recognizing that plan design, not just availability, matters more than ever. Raley shared an example from her own household that how the dental policy processed as a secondary plan was totally different than other carriers I’ve dealt with,” she says. “It seems like there’s less red tape, more human interaction, which makes a big difference in the experience and out-of-pocket expenses.” To design plans that meet today’s demands, Ameritas data suggests consultants should factor in group demographics, expected procedures by age and even risk tolerance when recommending funding structures. As Bendler puts it, “We’re a very small component of the employee benefits package … maybe five to six percent of the overall spend. So, unless we connect it to something bigger, we don’t get the time or attention. That’s where the oral to-overall health story becomes essential.” reinforced the operational differences between plans. “We’re a blended family, and my kids are in the process of getting Invisalign braces. Just seeing

Rethinking virtual care as a strategic advantage

cost savings. — Jake Bendler, Ameritas

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Telehealth can help clients improve access, control costs and streamline care delivery. With employers continually looking for more innovative ways to control costs and improve healthcare access, virtual care is emerging as a foundational part of modern benefit strategies. Chelsea Steinmeyer, SVP, consultant relations at healthcare platform Transcarent, shares insights on how brokers and advisors can help clients incorporate telehealth offerings. Her perspective draws from experience helping organizations implement virtual primary care, care navigation and condition-specific virtual solutions. Q: Why is telehealth becoming more popular? A: Employers are grappling with rising healthcare costs and significant gaps in access. Many employees are skipping care due to long wait times or lack of a primary care physician. This leads to delayed diagnoses and unnecessary ER visits. Telehealth fills these gaps by making care available quickly, conveniently, and often at a lower cost. Q: What are the most common telehealth-related challenges? A: The biggest concern is employees not seeking care when they need it. With the average wait for

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