Cache County School District controls health plan costs and substantially reduces employees’ out-of-pocket expenses
The challenge
Cache County School District had been getting double-digit price increases from other health plan companies. They wanted an alternative plan that provides quality benefits with lower costs for the district and employees, plus price transparency and an efficient provider network.
The solution
As a trailblazer, Cache County School District sought alternatives to what was being offered in Utah. After evaluating Surest they signed a four-year contract, anticipating that Surest would curb health care costs and provide a robust provider network via the UnitedHealthcare Choice Plus network. The ability to see prices upfront, before an appointment, has empowered employees to make informed decisions and choose more efficient care, saving money for the school district and employees.
Outcome
Employee impact in 2021
- Employees save: 55% out-of-pocket savings – on average, Cache County School District members spent $493 in 2021 vs. $1,104 in a consumer-directed health plan (CDHP-HSA) comparison group. *
- Employees engaged: 88% of members with a claim (claimants) interacted with Surest via the app or Surest Member Services. 75% of member households overall (claimant and non-claimants combined) interacted with Surest.
- 9% higher primary care provider visits – can improve health outcomes.
Employer impact in 2021
- 14% lower plan paid per member, per month
- 27% lower emergency room utilization
- 9% higher primary care provider visits, which can improve employees’ health
- 23% lower inpatient admits
- 6% lower outpatient surgeries
“The Surest digital interface is the best health care platform we have ever encountered. A primary objective of any health plan is to give ownership of choices to the covered members. Surest does this in a way other plans cannot, it allows members to make significant choices in the application of their health benefits.”
- Kirk McRae, Human Resources Director Cache County School District