Most Americans with health insurance — roughly 55 percent — reported an increase over the past year, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute.
And while the real news there is probably why that number is so low despite all the press reports and Chicken Little declarations to the contrary, the fact of the matter is that employees are doing their part when it comes to managing expenses. They're turning to generic drugs, talking to their doctors more about different health care options and putting off office visits for more serious symptoms.
So it was refreshing to see that the latest news from the tireless researchers over at MetLife indicate that employers are pulling their weight, too.
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Apparently, more than half — 57 percent of larger employers offer wellness programs now. That's nearly a 10 percent jump over the last two years. And more than 90 percent of those firms firmly believe they help reign in health care costs.
But maybe more importantly, the study reveals, "about four out of five employers that have wellness programs are providing incentives to encourage employee participation." Click here to check out which incentives are the most popular.
It always helps to look past the headlines and dramatic TV spots.
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