Open Enrollment

Confusing to Employees – Survey Results

GuideSpark, the leader in employee communications and engagement, released results in June of a 2014 Open Enrollment (OE) Survey Report that examined HR leaders’ assessments of their annual OE processes.

The survey found that 51% of companies say their employees do not make their OE selections on time. In addition, over half of those responding to the survey feel that OE is confusing for employees and 73% wish there was an easier way to communicate and engage their workforce during OE.

HR leaders find OE stressful as they try to explain very complex topics to an employee base that has varying degrees of understanding of their benefit options. Every new program introduced or change to an existing program adds to the complexity. The research from the survey confirmed that HR teams could use more effective ways to communicate with employees.

The survey revealed that 68% of the companies already offer or plan to offer a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), a commonly-offered yet complex plan that can significantly benefit certain employees.

The study also shows that companies are experimenting with technology-driven solutions to reach and engage employees. While many continue to use traditional methods like email and printed materials to communicate OE, some companies are exploring use of new technologies that mirror more closely with how people consume information today.

The Montana Chamber has endorsed the Associated Employers Group Benefit Plan & Trust who works closely with member companies, employees, and brokers to educate those covered by the Plan on their benefits and how they work. AE’s open enrollment periods are December for a January 1st start date and March for an April 1st start date. The Associated Employers Group Benefit Plan & Trust assists its member companies with educating employees on their plan options. They can prepare customized benefit summaries, as well as conduct employee benefit meetings to assist management in explaining the value of the benefits being offered. If you are interested in learning more, please give us a call at 406-248-6224.

Written by Ruth French, Director of AE Trust Operations