Why Having a Strong Employee Benefits Program is Important
Offering CaliforniaChoice to your employees isn’t just good for them – it’s great for your business too. A strong benefits program can work wonders:
- help you attract and retain top talent;
- increase employee productivity;
- enhance staff morale;
- minimize employee turnover;
- improve employee engagement;
- reduce stress for employees and covered dependents;
- keep your workforce healthier;
- enhance your reputation as an employer; and
- show employees you care.
Ancillary Insurance Benefits
What if health insurance isn’t enough? Chances are, many of your employees are looking for something more. Ancillary insurance benefits may be the answer. They can help you meet more of your employees’ needs with additional options:
- Dental
- Vision
- Life
- Chiropractic & Acupuncture
- Supplemental coverage like Hospital Indemnity, Accident, Critical Illness
- Legal Plans
- Pet Insurance
- Others
Your business can cover all or part of the cost of these plans, or you can offer them as a voluntary option where employees pay the full premium.
You may choose to provide a single type of coverage, such as Dental or Vision, or allow employees to select from a range of options. It ultimately depends on what you and your broker agree on with your insurance company or plan administrator, as well as what fits your budget.
Why Are Ancillary Benefits Important?
Ancillary benefits empower employees to customize their coverage, ensuring it fits their unique needs and those of their families. In 2023, nearly 87% of Americans had dental insurance, according to the National Association of Dental Plans. Surprisingly, about half of them received coverage through their jobs, either via employer-sponsored or voluntary plans. Another 5% opted for individual dental plans, while roughly one-third (32%) were covered through Medicaid (called Medi-Cal in California) or Medicare. Dental care coverage continues to be a crucial part of health care for millions.
The Vision Counsel says about two-thirds (67%) of U.S. adults have some form of managed vision care coverage. That’s based on the VisionWatch Consumer InSights Q4 2024 study. More than half have employer-sponsored coverage. It’s even more (58%) for Gen Xers.
Just like medical insurance, Ancillary coverage helps employees stay healthy, access quality care, and feel supported. It’s more than just a benefit — it’s peace of mind. Knowing they’re protected from unexpected out-of-pocket costs means less stress and more focus, boosting both morale and productivity.
Ancillary coverage also offers employees both convenience and savings. Group premiums are typically more budget-friendly than individual plans, and with a Premium Only Plan (POP), premiums can be effortlessly deducted straight from paychecks. This not only saves employees money on taxes but also eliminates the hassle of tracking payment deadlines. It’s a win-win for peace of mind and their wallets.