The Oklahoman

GROUP HELPS LOWER HEALTH CARE COSTS FOR EMPLOYERS NATIONWIDE

- PAULA BURKES, BUSINESS WRITER

Q: Who is Summit?

A: We’re a group of profession­als in benefits, insurance and investment­s who are dedicated to using the resources of our national network to provide the best solutions for clients in all industries, markets and of all sizes. We have strong client relationsh­ips that allow us to design and implement strategic plans that are customized for each client’s situation and priorities.

Q: How is Summit helping save self-insured employers money with their health care costs?

A: Our company works closely with employers to determine the best options to help manage health care expenses. We have background research and institutio­nal knowledge in health care issues, which allows us to partner with our clients to assess costs and benefits of all available market options and evaluate what they mean for that client’s organizati­on.

Q: How big of a problem is health care for employers?

A: The problem is that employers are expected to understand the intricacie­s of a highly complex industry that is undergoing constant change. Healthcare is an opportunit­y for employers, but that opportunit­y comes at an increasing­ly significan­t expense and can have a very real impact on employee satisfacti­on and retention. At Summit, we let employers focus on running their businesses while we remain current on health care changes, advise on compliance issues, and provide counsel on how to balance the expense of health care with the needs of the organizati­on and its employees.

Q: How does a business become more aware of how much it spends on health care?

A: Our company helps clients by providing recommenda­tions on which plans best suit their health care needs. We consider various factors as part of a top-tobottom analysis of employers’ benefit offerings and health care costs. For instance, we look at monthly premiums, network provider access, prescripti­on drug availabili­ty and customer service. Summit provides not only the comprehens­ive analysis, but also the follow-up recommenda­tions for an employer to make an informed, responsibl­e decision for the business and its employees.

Q: How can interested businesses obtain more informatio­n?

A: On Tuesday, McBride Hospital and Summit are partnering on an educationa­l session for employers looking to better understand and manage health care costs. The event will take place at 9600 Broadway Extension in Oklahoma City. Lunch will be provided. Seating is limited. To RSVP, please call Tracy Creger at 800-475-0991, extension 7695.

 ??  ?? Tracy Creger is director of Provider Strategies at Summit.
Tracy Creger is director of Provider Strategies at Summit.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United States