Episode 3: Mid Market Dynamics, Payment Integrity & Innovative Vendors with Jake Frankel

SummaryIn this episode of Bending The Trend, Norman Volsky interviews Jake Frankel, founder of ASF Strategies, discussing innovative strategies to combat rising healthcare costs. They explore effective vendor strategies for mid-market companies, the importance of payment integrity, and the role of reimbursement-focused strategies in controlling costs. Jake emphasizes the need for better marketing to employees about available healthcare solutions and shares insights on the challenges faced by benefits leaders. Takeaways🔍 The best vendor strategies are often unnoticed by employees 🛑 Efficient stop-loss purchasing is crucial for cost savings 💰 Payment integrity solutions can drive meaningful savings 📊 Reference-based pricing remains a powerful cost-control lever 🤝 Direct contracting vendors help employers better manage healthcare spend 🩻 Radiology services can unlock substantial system-wide savings 🏥 Advanced primary care is essential—but still often overlooked 📣 Strong employee marketing boosts engagement with healthcare plans 🧠 Understanding the technical details behind solutions is critical to success 😊 Building positive regard for healthcare plans directly impacts employee satisfaction Chapters00:00 Introduction to Healthcare Cost Strategies03:01 Effective Vendor Strategies for Mid-Market Companies06:03 Innovative Approaches to Cost Control08:59 Challenges in Employee Engagement and Marketing12:01 Final Insights and Advice for Benefits Leaders