Lower employer health care costs and give consumers more choices

According to Forrester Research, consumer-driven health plans (CDHPs) will attract 2.7 million members and capture $16 billion in premiums by 2005. Preliminary reports from carriers and consultants offering CDHPs show that medical cost increases are less under a CDHP compared to other health plans. A recent nine-month study by a national carrier demonstrates that medical costs under a CDHP rose by just 1.5 percent, compared to double digit increases under other types of plans (Ceniceros).

How do you choose a contact management system?

Business has picked up lately and I’ve come to the realization that my contact management system, which I have been using for the past five years, is outdated. I want to track action items and run reports, something my current software doesn’t allow. I know some of the newest software will let me do that (and then some). I’m ready to make a significant investment to upgrade; however, I’m intimidated by the wide array of options.

Which packages are considered the industry leaders? Out of this mix which programs are overpriced? What kind of features should I be looking for?

I’m curious if any of you are using an online contact management service instead of running a system on your computer. Are online systems as robust and reliable as those running on your computer?

- Dave M., Broker

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