Using a multi-platform approach to CDH and COBRA benefits administration can create a host of problems for third party benefits administrators. The following infographic highlights the negative impacts of a multi-platform approach and examines the benefits of a single solution.
Negative Impacts of a Multi-Platform Approach to CDH and COBRA Benefits
Employee benefits is a highly competitive industry. TPA firms must do two things to build a profitable employee benefits administration business:
- Work efficiently by streamlining their benefits administration processes
- Deliver a high-quality experience to clients and account holders
Many TPAs use multiple technology platforms to provide benefits administration services even though it is less efficient and leads to redundant costs. The downsides of a multiple platform approach include a negative impact on cost, user experience, and accountability.
Multi-Platforms = A “Frankensystem” Approach
Using multiple platforms to provide TPA services can result in a number of problems that lower the quality of service and frustrates clients.
Increased Operational Costs
- Each platform requires its own development and support teams
- Additional staff required to manage each platform increases salary, benefits and overhead costs
- Multiple-platform vendors can’t offer the volume pricing available through a single-platform vendor
Lack of Automation
- Different platforms often don’t integrate with each other
- Requires double entry which is slow, inefficient and prone to human error
- Takes longer to make changes or update data
- Incorrect data in one or more platforms can cause problems for clients
Compliance Issues
- Employee benefits is a highly regulated industry
- Compliance issues can arise when separate platforms don’t integrate with each other
- Incorrect data and delayed communications can result in penalties to employers and loss of coverage to employees
Lack of Coordinated Customer Support
- Having different customer support teams for each platform reduces efficiency
- Quality of support from platform vendors can vary widely
- Lack of one vendor with a “big picture” view of the entire system can lead to bad decisions for the TPA and clients
Implementation and Functionality Problems
- Takes longer to get multiple systems up and running
- Updates or new features on one platform may not work well with others
- Employees must learn to use multiple systems instead of just one
Using a single platform provides a better experience for everyone, including TPAs, employers, and participants.
Benefits of a Single-Platform Approach
Stable costs
Overhead and labor costs are more predictable and reduce excess with a single platform provider.
Lower fees
Charging lower fees due to reduced overhead and fewer redundant expenses can create a competitive advantage.
Centralized portal
Delivering administration, banking, and investments through a single portal provides a more cohesive experience for clients. It also creates a streamlined workflow and a more flexible team for the TPA.
Global recordkeeping
TPAs who offer CDH account and COBRA services can use one platform that utilizes single employer and participant records for all benefit types.
Superior customer service
Having a single point of contact allows for faster, easier and more transparent problem solving. If the TPA needs assistance, a single solutions provider has greater insight and capability for addressing and resolving any issues.
Tighter data security
A single platform reduces the transfer of employer and employee information and minimizes the risk of data breaches.
DataPath, Inc. is a leading technology provider for cloud-based benefits administration solutions. Summit is the industry’s only all-in-one CDH and COBRA benefits platform designed for seamless account and benefits management.