Checklist: Employee Health

Before constructing or choosing a health plan, find out what your employees want. After discussing options -- and controlling your employees´ expectations -- contact an independent agent or broker who should be able to provide a full explanation of choices.

When reviewing your insurance options with an agent or broker, ask the following questions:

• Is the insurance carrier licensed, accredited, reputable and financially secure?
• Are policies renewed every six months or each year?
• Is the plan easy to administer?
• Are claims processed and paid quickly?
• Does the insurer provide educational and other communications materials to employees?
• Does the insurer underwrite the policy as a group, as individuals or both?
• Does the managed care plan provide sufficient financial incentive to encourage employees to select network providers?
• How much will it cost the company on a monthly basis?
• Should you insure just for major medical expenses or for all medical expenses?
• Are there deductibles to pay before the insurance kicks in?
• After the deductible, what part of the costs is covered by the plan?
• How much more does it cost to see a provider outside the plan?
• What doctors, hospitals and other providers are part of the plan?
• Are there enough of the kinds of doctors you would expect to have?
• Are the providers located conveniently for your employees?
• Does the plan require permission for specialist referrals?
• Are there limits to how much will be covered by the plan?
• Does the plan cover the expenses of delivering a baby?
• Does the plan include prescription drugs?
• Does the plan include drug and alcohol treatment, mental-health care, home healthcare, hospice care, physical therapy and so-called experimental treatments?
• How do independent government organizations rate the plan?
• What do friends say about their experience with the plan?
• What do doctors say about their experience with the plan?