Hill, Chesson & Woody (HCW), an independent benefits consulting firm, has announced the launch of the 12th annual 2016-2017 Healthcare Benefits & Costs Survey. HCW partners with HR management firm Capital Associated Industries (CAI) annually to conduct this survey. The Employers Association (TEA) of Charlotte, North Carolina co-sponsored the survey. Now in its twelfth year, this survey provides employers across the state with valuable information needed to manage their healthcare plans. Over 600 organizations participated last year, and this year participant counts are expected to surpass that number by survey close, January 27, 2017.

This benchmark survey is the only state-specific survey that provides healthcare cost-related data about the marketplace. The findings will allow employers to compare their premium costs, health plan designs and cost-sharing arrangements to other companies of similar size and industry. The data gathered from the survey enables employers to identify areas of strength within their organization allowing them to maintain advantages, spot areas of opportunity where improvements can be made, and design a benefit strategy that meets organizational objectives for recruiting, rewarding, and retaining employees.

This year, data on dental and vision plans are included as well. Participants will learn specific details of medical, dental and vision plans such as premium costs, employer contributions, rate increases, and more.

If the participant is a client of HCW, they can simply authorize HCW to take the survey on their behalf.

Participants who prefer to submit their benefits data via screenshots and/or attachments, can contact the CAI Survey Team for further instructions.

Should participants prefer to enter their information manually, they can do so through a user-friendly online platform. This version of the survey requires about 30-40 minutes, depending on number of plans. Participants must start and finish the survey in a single online session and are encouraged to first review the survey questions which may be found here. Employers wishing to participate by entering their plan data online may click here.

“This benefits survey is the most comprehensive, local comparison to see how your plan measures up,” said Todd Yates, HCW partner and CEO. “Last year’s survey uncovered that for traditional plans, the average premium for individual coverage is $5,985 per year, of which employers cover 81%. This type of information is invaluable when it comes to remaining competitive and taking care of employees while managing costs.”