"For the many 2023 calendar-year plans using the [federal poverty level (FPL)] affordability safe harbor, the required employee contribution cannot exceed 9.12% of the FPL for a particular area -- $13,590 for mainland US -- or $103.28 per month (slightly up from $103.15 in 2022)[.]"  MORE >>

"Employers should consider the adjustments to the affordability contribution percentage in developing a contribution strategy for 2023 -- they may be able to increase the required employee contribution for their lowest cost self-only coverage and still satisfy one of the safe harbors." [Charts show prior year maximum contribution amounts and ACA indexed dollar limits.]  MORE >>

"The new remote landscape is making what used to be an easy application of FMLA eligibility into a difficult analysis. This article examines the FMLA regulatory framework for remote employees, a recent Texas federal court decision on the issue and the practical options that employers have moving forward."  MORE >>

"The impact on premiums of expanding pre-deductible coverage to 116 drug classes related to chronic disease management medications in HSA-eligible health plans is relatively small (range 1.3–4.7 percent).... Premiums increased the least ... when employers imposed coinsurance instead of a deductible and when increased use of prescription drugs led to reduced use of other medical services."  MORE >>

"All respondents (100%) provide coverage for tele-behavioral health services. The number of in-network behavioral health providers has grown by an average of 48% in 3 years among commercial health plans. The overwhelming majority of health plans (89%) are actively recruiting mental health care providers ... The number of providers eligible to prescribe Medication Assisted Therapy (MAT) for substance use disorder, including opioid dependence, has more than doubled -- growing 114% over 3 years."  MORE >>

"The White House ... executive order announces a policy of supporting women's ability to access reproductive health care by traveling to seek abortion care in states where it is legal."  MORE >>