GBA 2

(Updated April 2023)

GBA 2 highlights the impact of managing and directing employee benefit plans in realizing strategic organizational milestones.  The course's primary focus is on structuring, administering and enhancing health-related benefit programs to achieve competitive advantage in attracting and retaining talent in a constantly changing labor marketplace. The course begins with a comprehensive overview of the U. S. health care system, looking at various market segments and how these market segments impact pricing and offerings in other sectors. GBA 2 then delves into selected advanced topics to deliver value in health plan design.  The course examines rating and premium setting, controlling risk, and designing quality and cost-effective provider networks. The course integrates actuarial and funding issues with program design and compliance.  Additionally, the course acquaints the learner with an understanding of other needs-relevant group benefits; such as disability income programs, long-term care and life insurance protections. GBA 2 uses mini-cases and an integrated, course-wide case study to achieve its learning objectives of developing an appreciation for designing benefits programs within a highly volatile and rapidly evolving market economy.

Topics Covered:

• Changing Dynamics of the U.S. Health Care System
• Rating and Premium Setting
• Controlling Risk Factors
• Designing Cost-Effective Health Provider Networks
• Participant Response to Health Plan Pricing
• Initiatives in Health Care Quality Improvement
• The Small-Group and Individual Insurance Markets
• Self-Funding by Small Employers
• Integrated Patient Care
  
• Disability Income Programs
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Life Insurance Concepts and Policy Options