Brokers, carriers and politicians have written and spoken volumes about the status of health care benefits in 2017. As the year winds down, is it possible to sum up the 12-month roller-coaster in just one word?

BenefitsPRO asked employers to share their insights on the most important issues they face. Their responses provide a valuable roadmap for brokers as they plan ahead for this fall's abbreviated open enrollment period.

Benefits professionals have been on a roller-coaster ride since the 2016 presidential election.

Employee benefit options once resembled a fast-food restaurant with only a few basic items on the menu.

WalletHub ranked 50 states and the District of Columbia to determine the 10 best states for children's health care.

The bottom 10 states in the 2017 Best States for Children's Health Care study have their work cut out for them.

Although it may be premature to perform last rites on insurance exchanges created under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), it's fair to say that they are on life support in many states.

Look for the variety of product choices to spice up demand for voluntary benefits in 2018.