Workplace Insurance Bucks National Trend In Mass.
As employer-sponsored insurance enrollment has tumbled in recent years under health care reform, Massachusetts has seen a modest increase in workplace insurance enrollment, according to a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC).
The report, released Monday by PwC's Health Research Institute (HRI), showed that employer-sponsored insurance rose 1 percent in the seven years since Massachusetts enacted its universal health care law, while nationwide enrollment fell 5.7 percent.
PwC noted that growth in Massachusetts workplace insurance enrollment happened despite the difficult economy, and a time when health insurance premiums have hit historic highs.
According to HRI's analysis, two factors are likely at play in driving workplace enrollment up in the Bay State, including the universal coverage mandate, which increased demand for coverage, and tax implications for employers and employees that fail to adhere to the mandate.
"Despite concern that the Affordable Care Act signals the end of employer-sponsored health coverage, our analysis of the Massachusetts experience paints a more complex picture," said Robert Valletta, the Boston-based PwC U.S. healthcare provider leader.
And despite a downward trend in workplace enrollment nationwide, Michael Thompson, PwC U.S. human resources principal focused on healthcare, said health insurance benefits will likely remain prevalent, even as federal health care reform takes full effect.
"Employer-sponsored coverage will continue to be a pillar of the U.S. health system, and it has been an important part of employer strategy to attract and retain talent, and promote improved health and productivity. Most employers see this return on investment, alone, as a compelling reason to continue offering coverage," Thompson said.
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