Do Your Group Health Benefits Still Fit Your Workforce in 2026? Time for a Q1 Policy Check
Workforce needs and employee expectations have shifted significantly over the past few years. Hiring patterns, demographics, and healthcare costs continue to evolve, often faster than benefit plans are updated. That raises a key question for employers: How often should businesses review their group health insurance benefits?
Probably more than you think, and right now would be an ideal time for a review. But why now?
Why Q1 Is the Smart Time To Review Group Health Benefits
Renewal decisions often happen quickly, driven by deadlines and rate changes, and many employers understandably move on to other priorities. But reviewing group health benefits in the first quarter creates space for reflection and adjustment. Without the pressure of immediate renewal timelines, they can carefully assess whether benefits still align with workforce needs, cost goals, and retention priorities — rather than reacting later when costs or dissatisfaction rise.
Post-renewal blind spots are common. Cost increases may go unnoticed, plan designs may no longer match employee needs, or utilization patterns may shift without review. Annual workforce changes, including new hires, turnover, and remote or hybrid arrangements, can also affect how benefits perform in practice.
Annual renewals also simply make good economic sense. Nationally, healthcare insurance premiums are rising, and New Mexico is no different. For employers navigating rising healthcare expenses and a competitive labor market, a proactive review of group health insurance can make a meaningful difference.
Signs Your Group Health Insurance No Longer Fits Your Workforce
Several warning signs can indicate that group health benefits are not going over too well with your employees. A few examples:
- Low enrollment
- Frequent employee complaints
- Increasing questions about out-of-pocket costs
Demographic changes can also dampen everyone’s enthusiasm. Younger employees may prioritize flexibility and affordability, while growing families or aging workforces may need broader networks or different cost structures. When plans lag behind these shifts, benefits can become a source of frustration rather than support.
Employers often recognize these issues when benefits simply “feel off,” even if they can’t immediately identify the cause.
What To Evaluate During a Group Health Insurance Check-Up
A benefits check-up should focus on how plans are actually being used. Reviewing plan options, employer and employee contribution strategies, provider networks, and claims trends can reveal opportunities for improvement.
Employers may also consider voluntary benefits or complementary coverage that enhances overall value without significantly increasing the plan’s cost. The goal in this case is not to overhaul benefits unnecessarily, but to make sure these benefits are actually benefiting everyone.
Working through a checklist-style review with a local advisor can simplify the process and possibly help lower the cost of group health insurance. New Mexico employers can benefit from working with an agency that understands regional market dynamics.
Make Group Health Benefits a Strategic Advantage in 2024
Regular reviews help with the bottom line, giving employers a way to control costs, improve employee satisfaction, and strengthen recruitment and retention efforts. Group health benefits are more than an expense line item. As you know, they are a strategic business tool when structured thoughtfully.
Ready to work with a knowledgeable local advisor? The second, third, and fourth quarters will be here before you know it. Reach out to Daniels Insurance for a personalized quote today.
About Daniels Insurance
At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we have a unique understanding of the risks that businesses like yours face on a regular basis. With the backing of our comprehensive coverages and our dedication to customer service and quick claims resolution, your business will be fully protected. For more information, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.