As National Small Business Month wraps up, it is good to keep the unique operational needs of small businesses top of mind as we head into a new season. Over the last few years, high inflation costs, rising interest rates, supply chain issues and price hikes for health benefits have been just a few of the issues business owners and HR leaders have had to navigate.

One of the largest expenses and administrative burdens for small businesses consistently is health benefits. The process of administering these benefits requires arduous amounts of time, money and energy – and as benefits costs continue to climb – many employers often feel like all of the effort isn't creating enough value for their employees and their business. According to KFF, the average annual premiums for both single and family health care coverage increased by 7% in 2023 – causing many to avoid or even skip medical care.