Why Employer Health Insurance Costs Keep Rising And What Businesses Can Do About It

In this episode, we are joined by Chris Hamilton, Partner and Employee Benefits Practice Leader at Hotchkiss Insurance, an independent insurance agency based in Texas. With nearly two decades of experience in corporate finance and employee benefits, Chris helps employers navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, reduce costs, and gain greater control over their health plans by moving beyond traditional insurance models. In addition to his work at Hotchkiss Insurance, Chris is the founder of Benefits Insider, an educational platform dedicated to helping employers understand how healthcare financing really works. Through practical case studies, industry analysis, and real-world examples, he empowers business leaders to make more informed decisions about employee benefits and healthcare spending. Recognized as the 2025 BenefitsPro Advisor of the Year, Chris has become a leading voice on healthcare transparency, employer-sponsored health plans, and cost-containment strategies. He regularly contributes to podcasts, conferences, and educational content designed to simplify one of the most misunderstood areas of business. This conversation explores: How Chris got started in the healthcare and employee benefits industry The unintended consequences of the Affordable Care Act on employers and healthcare  The incentives that drive insurance companies, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), and other healthcare stakeholders Alternative approaches to controlling healthcare costs  Why are healthcare costs continuing to rise, and what can employers do to take back control of their benefits strategy? Tune in to hear Chris's practical insights into the healthcare system and how businesses can create more efficient, cost-effective plans for their employees. Connect with Chris: Personal Website Hotchkiss Insurance LinkedIn Youtube Tiktok 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9C  🛍️ Recommended Books from this Episode 📖 Overcharged: Why Americans Pay Too Much For Health Care – A deep dive into the systemic issues driving high healthcare costs in the U.S. and how they impact patients and families. 👉 Get it here 📘 The Price We Pay: What Broke American Health Care—and How to Fix It – An investigative look at the financial and structural problems in American healthcare, with solutions for reform and better outcomes. 👉 Check it out 📙 The Healthcare Fix: Universal Insurance for All Americans – Explores practical strategies for implementing universal healthcare coverage in the U.S., aiming to improve access and reduce costs. 👉 Explore it here 📕 Benefits Revolution: The Next Generation of Employer-Sponsored Healthcare – A forward-looking guide to modernizing employer-based healthcare benefits to meet the needs of today's workforce. 👉 Discover it here Note: These are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps support the podcast. Thank you!