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  • Human immune-boosting cancer drugs seen extending lives

    May 13, 2013

    Merck & Co., Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. and Roche Holding AG have opened a new front against cancer with the next generation of experimental drugs that use the human immune system to seek and destroy tumor cells.


  • Think connectivity

    May 1, 2013

    I use LinkedIn. A lot. In fact, I suspect I'm connected to many of the readers of this magazine. I use it to stay on top of what colleagues are doing. Who is working for a new company. Who has gone out on their own. Who is posting something I'm interested in. I also post on LinkedIn a lot. Usually an article that I think has general appeal among my connections. Something on health reform, a new study on employee benefits, maybe the latest on digital health. The things I post usually come from various news feeds that I follow daily. And every post I make to LinkedIn also posts on my Twitter account.


  • Two ways to increase retirement savings

    May 1, 2013

    John Ludwig on how to help employees can increase their retirement savings including auto escalation and auto enrollment.


  • Young at heart

    April 1, 2013

    When we take a look at our industry and the landscape ahead, one can wonder who might be better equipped to handle the rigors of a rapidly changing industry: the seasoned, been-around-the-block adviser or the young and energetic newcomer who is ready to impart fresh ideas. Clearly, a younger person's thought process can be very different than a seasoned employee or adviser. This has its advantages and disadvantages. And it raises the question of how a younger adviser could help or hinder our industry.


  • Consolidating multi-vendor retirement plans

    April 1, 2013

    Consolidating multi-vendor retirement plans, a how-to guide


  • Technology as a savings driver

    April 1, 2013

    The burden of saving and investing has shifted to the plan participant


  • Uncover narcotics abuse with close look at PBM reports

    March 1, 2013

    Most pharmacy benefit managers don’t use warning systems to flag high use or potential abuse of narcotics. But you can, with a good eye and simple calculator.


  • Finding a niche

    February 1, 2013

    When you think of client diversity, what comes to mind? Do you believe being a generalist is the appropriate course for your future?


  • Creating the sales environment you want

    December 1, 2012

    Craig Davidson on creating the sales environment you want.


  • Your business model could spell doom

    December 1, 2012

    Nelson Griswold on why your brokerage business model could spell doom.


  • Telling Congress 'Hands off' 401(k)s

    December 1, 2012

    Tax reform is a topic that Congress continues to tackle, but in order for Washington to lower rates, they have to eliminate loopholes and deductions.


  • Election 2012 reaction: Pro vs. con

    December 1, 2012

    "If Governor Romney had been elected and succeeded in repealing Obamacare, millions of people would not have health insurance that they will have under the Affordable Care Act. ... Common sense says that having most Americans covered will reduce costs and keep more people healthy. Those who have no insurance place a heavy burden on high-cost emergency room care. If they had insurance they would see physicians or find other far less expensive care." - Michael L. Weintraub, Contemporary Pensions


  • Financial considerations for 2013

    December 1, 2012

    At press time, Congress had yet to decide on keeping income and estate tax rates at recent levels. 2013 may bring some notable financial developments, and it isn't too soon to prepare for change and consider the impact that these potential changes could have on your financial life.


  • Wanted: new blood

    November 1, 2012

    Our business is facing a significant challenge with how it will perpetuate and nurture bright, young professional people. We need to assure they will be available to distribute products and services in the future. Baby boomers are retiring and will continue to retire, or at least acknowledge that one day on the horizon they might not work full time. Yes, there are lots of indications they can and will work well beyond the traditional retirement age of 65. But who will be closing deals and driving new business in 10 to 15 years? The answer is simple: members of younger generations.


  • Battling PBM costs

    October 1, 2012

    As CEO of United Benefit Advisors, I hear continually about the issues facing our 36,000 employer clients. Managing prescription drug costs continues to be paramount. The UBA 2012 Health Plan Survey shows that 64.2% of prescription drug plans utilize three co-pay tiers (generic, formulary brand, and non-formulary brand); 2.9% have a one-tier plan, 8.2% retain a two-tier plan; and 24.7% add a fourth tier (specialty). Consultants should watch these plan structures carefully as many brand-name drugs go off their patents and pricing is determined for the influx of generic drugs. On the other end of the spectrum, we're watching increases in specialty drugs, which are driving up costs significantly.