The Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce recently shared insights into the health care industry. 

An article by guest blogger Mike Tilton, vice president of sales at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (BCBSAZ), discussed the rising costs of health care and ways employers can reduce costs without slashing benefits.

Tilton wrote that BCBSAZ encourages employers to look closely at health care costs before passing such costs on to employees or cutting benefits. By analyzing data provided by the employer, Tilton wrote that BCBSAZ can identify the source of rising costs, potential issues and gaps in coverage. With that information, it can help the employer adjust its care management program to benefit both the employer and employee, he noted.

Tilton pointed out that while an employer could assume that costs are rising due to chronic health conditions, other factors such as emergency room visits can influence increased costs. By changing behaviors, the employer can reduce its care management costs, he wrote.

Employers should ask several questions before making health care management decisions, including the source of the main cost drivers and avoidable costs, Tilton wrote. Employers should also consider wellness programs and other tools and programs that can improve employee health.