Small and midsize businesses (SMBs) account for approximately 99.9% of companies in the United States. Yet despite their purchasing power, they're often left out of national conversations on improving the health benefits landscape. Moreover, they're tasked with figuring out how to provide competitive health benefits that support recruiting talent while helping their workforces maintain good health – all with the fewest resources. 

Benefits advisors can elevate these concerns and be problem-solvers for struggling SMBs at the open enrollment table this year. From the data and through conversations I've been having with both brokers and employers, the following are top concerns SMBs are expressing – and how brokers can help address them: 

Unstable rates 

One of the most prominent issues employers are facing is unstable rates. A recent Kaiser Family Foundation survey found that average family coverage premiums are up 20% over the past five years and up 43% during the past 10 years. As costs rise for all, one employee injury or complex pregnancy can wreak havoc on next year's rates. This leaves employers feeling like they don't have any control over their health insurance plans. That can be unsettling, since it's often their second largest expense next to payroll.