Ways to control the rising cost of health insurance premiums

Written by Reed Tinsley | December 27, 2007

As health insurance premiums continue to rise, the following are the most common strategies medical practices use to control these costs:

1. Look for lower premiums by switching health insurance companies;

2. Change coverage benefits by increasing deductibles, copayments, etc. (practices are also setting of health savings accounts when this happens);

3. Eliminate coverage benefits – ex. Eliminate dental coverage; and

4. Have the employee subsidize part of the premium.

Out of all of the strategies above, the most common strategy is #4 – the employee subsidy. Most practices I see have the employee subsidize 10-20% of the premium even though I’ve seen it go as high as 25%.

About the Author

Reed Tinsley CPA

This article is written by Reed Tinsley, a Houston, TX-based CPA with over 30 years of experience advising physicians and medical practices across Texas and the United States. Reed holds certifications as a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), Certified Healthcare Business Consultant (CHBC), and Certified Financial Planner (CFP), specializing exclusively in the healthcare sector. He is a published author, nationally recognized speaker, and trusted advisor to physicians on accounting & tax, practice management, and financial planning. Schedule a Free Consultation.

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