--- title: The 90 Degree Benefits Newsletters and Blogs | 90 Degree Benefits description: As health plan benefits experts, we offer unique insights into the trends and topics shaping the employee benefits industry. --- [![Company Logo](https://90degreebenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/logo-90db.svg)](https://90degreebenefits.com/) - [News 90](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/#news-90) - [Administrator](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/#admin) - Resource Center # 90 Degree Benefits News 90 and Administrator --- As health plan benefits experts, we offer unique insights into the trends and topics shaping the employee benefits industry. Stay informed with the latest news, updates, and thought leader perspectives through our newsletters and blog posts. - [News 90](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/author/90-degree-benefits#news-90) - [Administrator](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/author/90-degree-benefits#admin) Resource Center ## News 90 Welcome to News 90—your inside track to expert perspectives on the employee benefits landscape. We break down key topics related to the insurance industry and keep you updated on the latest news and developments from 90 Degree Benefits. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Web%20Blog/90DB_Stoploss_Strategy.webp)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/stop-loss-costs-are-climbing) FEATURED ### [Stop-Loss Costs Are Climbing](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/stop-loss-costs-are-climbing)  3 Strategies to Consider Before Your Next Renewal  [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/self-funded-or-fully-insured.jpg)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/self-funded-vs-fully-insured) #### [Self-Funded vs. Fully Insured Health Plans](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/self-funded-vs-fully-insured) Explore the differences between Self-Funded vs Fully Insured health plans and find the best option for your organization. [![Making the Move to Self-Funding: Employer Readiness Checklist ](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/July.webp)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/self-funding-readiness) #### [Self-funding readiness](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/self-funding-readiness) Help employer clients evaluate self-funding readiness with key questions around risk, data, cash flow, stop loss, and plan support. [![Your Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Healthcare Plan](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/buying-a-helathcare-plan.jpg)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/buying-a-healthcare-plan) #### [Your Step-by-Step Guide to Buying a Healthcare Plan](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/buying-a-healthcare-plan) Navigate the complexities of buying a healthcare plan with insights that simplify your decision-making process. [![Critical First Step for Employee Engagement](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/critical-first-step.jpg)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/the-new-standard-for-primary-care-access) #### [The New Standard for Primary Care Access](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/the-new-standard-for-primary-care-access) Explore the concept of Primary Care Access and discover why low friction is essential for effective healthcare engagement. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/explain-dynamic-copays.jpg)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/how-to-explain-dynamic-copays-without-limiting-employee-choice) #### [How to Explain Dynamic Copays Without Limiting Employee Choice](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/how-to-explain-dynamic-copays-without-limiting-employee-choice) Learn how to explain dynamic copays effectively to enhance employee choice in health plans without causing resistance. [![The Hidden Driver of Health Plan Performance Hint: It’s not just the network.](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/April.webp)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/what-a-tpa-does) #### [What a Great TPA Actually Does](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/what-a-tpa-does) Discover what a TPA does beyond claims processing and how it can impact your health plan performance and costs. [![Health Plan Design - Copays vs. Deductibles](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/march-health-plan-design.jpg)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/copays-vs.-deductibles-which-health-plan-design-changes-employee-behavior) #### [Copays vs. Deductibles: Which Health Plan Design Changes Employee Behavior?](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/copays-vs.-deductibles-which-health-plan-design-changes-employee-behavior) Explore the differences between copays vs. deductibles and how they impact employee behavior and healthcare costs. [![The Top 5 Health Plan features Employees Love](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/health-plan-features-employees-love.jpg)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/5-elements-to-love-in-an-employer-health-plan) #### [5 Elements to Love in an Employer Health Plan](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/5-elements-to-love-in-an-employer-health-plan) Learn how a thoughtful employer health plan helps control costs while supporting employees through smarter funding and navigation. [![Trump's ](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Healthcare-plan.webp)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/what-trumps-healthcare-proposal-means-for-self-funding) #### [What Trump’s Healthcare Proposal Means for Self-Funding](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/what-trumps-healthcare-proposal-means-for-self-funding) 90 Degree Benefits is closely monitoring Trump's Great Healthcare Plan to understand how it could impact employers across the U.S. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/90-degree-benefits-helping-clients-stay-ahead.jpg)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/what-brokers-should-know-about-trumprx) #### [What Brokers Should Know About TrumpRx](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/what-brokers-should-know-about-trumprx) We're breaking down what brokers should know about TrumpRx and the potential shift to the benefits industry. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/05_42121772_9DB_Blog_November_72dpi_F.jpg)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/the-power-of-partnership-exploring-tpa-customer-service) #### [The Power of Partnership: Exploring TPA Customer Service](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/the-power-of-partnership-exploring-tpa-customer-service) At 90 Degree Benefits, we believe exceptional service is the foundation of successful health plan management. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/rising-premiums-to-real-savings-banner.jpg)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/cutting-healthcare-costs-by-27-for-one-manufacturer-client) #### [How 90 Degree Benefits Cut Healthcare Costs by 27% for One Manufacturer Client](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/cutting-healthcare-costs-by-27-for-one-manufacturer-client) 90 Degree Benefits implemented a comprehensive, data-driven approach that targeted the key drivers of cost without compromising employee care. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/October.webp)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/whats-ahead-for-2026-smarter-plan-design-starts-now) #### [What’s Ahead for 2026: Smarter Plan Design Starts Now](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/whats-ahead-for-2026-smarter-plan-design-starts-now) Here are four key trends we see on the horizon for 2026 and how 90 Degree Benefits helps employers and brokers stay in control. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/driving-measureable-savings-banner.jpg)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/access2day-is-driving-measurable-savings) #### [Access2day is Driving Measurable Savings](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/access2day-is-driving-measurable-savings) Many self-funded employers are turning to near-site clinic solutions like Access2day Health to lower costs and improve outcomes. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Blog-June.webp)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/why-brokers-are-reconsidering-their-health-plan-partners) #### [Why Brokers Are Reconsidering Their Health Plan Partners](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/why-brokers-are-reconsidering-their-health-plan-partners) That’s why you need a third-party administrator (TPA) you can count on, especially as M&A activity continues to shake up the self-funded health plan market. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/9DB_Blog.webp)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/careconnect-your-advocate-for-smarter-healthcare-navigation) #### [CareConnect: Your Advocate for Smarter Healthcare Navigation](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/careconnect-your-advocate-for-smarter-healthcare-navigation) CareConnect is more than just a cost-saving program—it provides advocacy for members and employers, ensuring access to high-quality, fairly priced healthcare. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/Backfill.webp)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/the-healthcare-holy-grail-achieving-the-perfect-balance-of-cost-quality-and-access) #### [The Healthcare Holy Grail: Achieving the Perfect Balance of Cost, Quality, and Access](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/the-healthcare-holy-grail-achieving-the-perfect-balance-of-cost-quality-and-access) For years, employers and brokers have been on a relentless quest for the "Healthcare Holy Grail"—a health plan that offers affordability, broad access, and high-quality benefits. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/protect-self-funded-1.webp)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/understanding-stop-loss-coverage) #### [Stop Loss 101: Protecting Your Self-Funded Plan](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/understanding-stop-loss-coverage) Self-funding is a cost-effective alternative to a fully insured plan but can come with the higher risk of funding costly medical and drug claims. To mitigate that risk, employers purchase stop loss insurance. [![](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Imported_Blog_Media/level-vs-self.webp)](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/level-funding-vs-self-funding) #### [Level-Funding vs. Self-Funding](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/level-funding-vs-self-funding) When evaluating healthcare plans, two popular options often come up: level-funding and self-funding. Both offer ways to manage healthcare costs effectively, but they differ in how risks and expenses are handled. Resource Center ## Administrator Our Administrator Newsletter dives into everything from legislative news to health tips, benefits trends, and more. Get caught up on the latest from 90 Degree Benefits and beyond. Summer 2026 ### Turning Health Plan Data into Action In this edition of *Administrator*, we’re looking at how employers can use their health plan data and proactive strategies to better manage costs and support their workforce. Explore the role of AI in healthcare, ways to reduce inpatient readmissions, the value of HSAs, and strategies for supporting employee caregivers. Plus, stay informed on regulatory developments and other trends shaping employee benefits today. [Read Newsletter](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Administrator%20Newsletters/90%20Degree_Administrator_Summer2026.pdf) Spring 2026 ### Why Investing in Health Benefits Matters Now More Than Ever In this edition of Administrator, we’re highlighting the impact of strategic health benefits amid rising costs and increasing complexity. See how 90 Degree Benefits helped an employer move from a projected 70% rate increase to costs 46% below expectations, while improving the employee experience. Explore insights on pharmacy optimization, transparency challenges, and emerging trends shaping today’s healthcare landscape. A timely read for employers and brokers focused on balancing cost, care, and outcomes. [Read Newsletter](https://blog.90degreebenefits.com/hubfs/Administrator%20Newsletters/90DB-Newsletter-Spring2026.pdf) Winter 2026 ### How 90 Degree Benefits Cut Healthcare Costs by 27% The Winter 2026 edition of Administrator highlights the healthcare trends shaping today’s benefits landscape. Explore how 90 Degree Benefits achieved a 27% reduction in healthcare costs, along with insights on TrumpRx, HDHPs, transparency, and Gen Z wellness. A smart, timely read for employers and brokers alike. [Read Newsletter](https://90degreebenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Winter2026.pdf) Fall 2025 ### Delivering Measurable Savings & Healthier Outcomes Employers are under constant pressure to balance healthcare cost, quality, and access. 90 Degree Benefits integrates cost containment and member navigation programs to achieve all three. When financial and logistical barriers are removed, the result is a better experience for everyone. [Read Newsletter](https://90degreebenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/NA105-AdminNL_90degf_Q4.pdf) Summer 2025 ### Self-Funding is on the Rise The TPA market is experiencing annual growth of around 10%. Annual premium increases are just one factor causing plan sponsors to explore other funding options. Experts say an increasing presence of chronic conditions fueled a need for greater operating efficiency and cost transparency. [Read Newsletter](https://90degreebenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/90DB-Admin-Newsletter-Q3.pdf) Spring 2025 ### Helping Employees Navigate a Complex Maze When a patient experienced a medical emergency requiring heart surgery, charges at a hospital known for refusing to negotiate totaled $813,330. By establishing direct lines of communication with key stakeholders, CareConnect secured an agreement at 150% of Medicare rates, helping the plan sponsor and its members avoid excessive costs. [Read Newsletter](https://90degreebenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/NA050-AdminNL_90degf_Q2.pdf) Winter 2025 ### New Bill Would End PBM/Payor Conflicts Bipartisan lawmakers are preparing to take their fight with PBMs to a new level in the next Congress. A group led by Sens. Elizabeth Warren (D., Mass.) and Josh Hawley (R., Mo.) has introduced legislation that would force all organizations that own health insurers to divest any interest in a pharmacy business within three years. [Read Newsletter](https://90degreebenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/NA183-AdminNL_90degf_LR.pdf) Fall 2024 ### Self-Funding: Still Effective After All These Years According to the 2023 KFF Employer Health Benefits Survey, two-thirds of U.S. workers are covered by self-funded or partially self-funded health plans—evidence that self-funding still works. [Read Newsletter](https://90degreebenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Fall-2024.pdf) Summer 2024 ### AI: Powering Year-Round Engagement After a decades-long search for ways to help employees use their health plan to better navigate a complicated system, Artificial Intelligence (AI) may have the power to finally move the employee engagement needle. [Read Newsletter](https://90degreebenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Summer-2024.pdf) Spring 2024 ### Meeting the Needs of Working Parents With industry analysts estimating that childcare payments have increased by more than 30% since 2019, more employers are looking for creative ways to help. [Read Newsletter](https://90degreebenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Spring-2024.pdf) Winter 2024 ### Balancing Cost and Quality Health benefits costs continue to pose a greater burden for employers and plan members with underlying costs of care projected to rise by up to 7% in 2024. The New Year is a perfect time to review an approach for achieving lower costs and higher quality care. [Read Newsletter](https://90degreebenefits.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Winter-2024.pdf) Want to see more from 90 Degree Benefits? ## Take a look at our most recent videos and webinar content! [View More Resources](https://90degreebenefits.com/video-library/) 90 Degree Benefits takes the challenges of a costly and complicated healthcare system and turns them into new opportunities and simple solutions for you and your clients. Are You Ready to Make the Right Turn™? 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