The 2024 Benefit Consultants' Sentiment Index (The Index) taps into the unique perspective and experience of skilled benefit consultants to gauge healthcare benefits trends and to better understand the needs of self-insured employers amid industry changes.

More than 100 skilled consultants to self-insured employers shared their perspectives on the changing dynamics in healthcare benefits.

A broad range of topics were explored including the cost impact of cancer care, prescription drug management, the evolving role of virtual/telehealth, GLP1 drugs, carrier navigation, digital point solution fatigue and AI’s role in optimizing patient interactions.

A unifying theme was increasing need for care navigation solutions that can help companies make more informed healthcare choices, drive better utilization of benefits among employees and help with cost management.

• 62% of consultants say independent healthcare navigation offers a better member experience with access to dedicated care coordination services
• 63% of consultants report their clients are considering consolidation of digital health point solutions all under a healthcare navigation solution given point solution fatigue
• 41% of leading-edge client employers are using best practices like care navigation tools and services to support their employees with cancer
• 50% of consultants report counseling clients on AI to help reduce administrative burdens