Why Is Member Advocacy Crucial for Self and Level Funded Employers

When partnering with a Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM), prioritizing good member advocacy in the selection criteria is vital.

PBMs play a significant role in managing prescription drug benefits for health plans, determining the list of covered medications, negotiating prices with drug manufacturers, and setting the terms under which those medications are provided to members. Here’s why good member advocacy should be a top consideration:

 

Increased Employee Satisfaction and Retention Rates

A PBM that actively advocates for its members can significantly improve the overall satisfaction of employees with their health benefits.

This can lead to higher employee retention rates, as members value employers who provide high-quality benefits¹ and support in navigating their healthcare needs.

 

Improves Health Outcomes

PBMs that prioritize member advocacy often implement programs and services aimed at improving medication adherence, managing chronic conditions, and providing education on medication use all while lowering costs for both members and employers.

This proactive approach can lead to better health outcomes for employees. A research conducted by the Health Enhancement Research Organization (HERO)² indicates that there is a connection between the health of employees and increased productivity, improved morale, greater engagement, and the overall success of a company.

 

Cost Savings

By advocating for members, a PBM can help ensure that employees are using their medications effectively and are on the most cost-effective therapies.
This can lead to significant savings for both the employer and members by minimizing waste, avoiding unnecessary medication use, and leveraging more affordable alternatives when appropriate.

Transparency and Trust
Employers need to trust that their PBM is working in the best interest of their company and their employees. Transparency practices include disclosing how revenue is earned, and formulary decisions are made.
This transparency is essential in an industry where conflicts of interest can otherwise undermine the value of the health benefits being provided.

 

Ease of Use and Support

Good member advocacy includes providing excellent customer support, clear communication, and tools that make it easy for members to manage their prescriptions.
When members have a positive experience with their PBM, it reflects well on the employer and reduces the administrative burden on HR departments by decreasing the number of benefits-related issues they need to resolve.

 

The Intercept Rx Difference

Choosing the right PBM can feel like navigating a maze with blindfolds on. With healthcare landscapes becoming increasingly complex and the stakes higher than ever, it’s critical to partner with a PBM that sees beyond mere transactions.
Enter Intercept Rx: where cutting-edge technology meets unparalleled member advocacy.

Unique Personal Touch

At Intercept Rx, we understand that health benefits are personal. That’s why our members have a dedicated member advocate —providing a consistent and caring experience. Our U.S.-based member advocates get to know each member’s unique needs to provide the finest concierge service.

“My employees have access to the most caring and outstanding pharmacy member advocates, thanks to Intercept Rx. Their dedication to ensuring our team gets the support they need has been a game-changer for our pharmacy benefits experience.”
— A Satisfied Employer Partner

 

In conclusion, selecting a PBM that prioritizes member advocacy can lead to a win-win situation for both employers and members by ensuring pharmacy benefits are cost-effective, easy to use, and supportive of members’ health.
Ready to provide your employees with the pharmacy advocacy they deserve?
Request a FREE Drug Savings Analysis today to learn more about how our personalized team can transform your pharmacy benefits experience. Let us be your guide in the complex world of health benefits, illuminating the path to cost savings, enhanced health outcomes, and a superior experience.

 

¹ https://www.bcbstxcommunications.com/shopsmallbusiness/why-health-insurance-is-important-to-employees.html#:~:text=Attract%20and%20retain,on%20employee%20satisfaction

² https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/benefits-compensation/employers-see-wellness-link-to-productivity-performance