Effectively managing a health plan demands a constant flow of accurate, timely, and relevant data to the plan sponsor and its board. Integration of financial and non-financial data is key for a holistic understanding of the plan’s performance. Board reports, sourced from various entities such as accountants, actuaries, third-party administrators, and pharmacy benefit managers, require meticulous compilation to form a concise yet comprehensive reporting package.
Reports inundated with excessive detail can overwhelm board members, leading to information being overlooked or disregarded. Conversely, reports lacking sufficient detail deprive the board of vital information needed for performance evaluation and decision-making. Achieving a balance involves presenting board reports that are clear, concise, and complete, often restricting individual subject matter reports to no more than three pages.
The board chair, as the steward of the agenda, shapes the meeting’s tone and foundation. A well-crafted agenda outlines the topics to be covered and guides board members on the information to review in advance, setting the stage for actionable steps after the meeting. The board chairperson or its representative plays a pivotal role in compiling and disseminating the board package before the meeting.
The board package encompasses crucial information, including detailed financial performance, healthcare claims analytics, plan trends, funding levels, and performance guarantee reporting.
Key Components of Board Reporting
- Financial Reports: Detailing the financial position and operational results, these reports provide a monthly cash basis balance sheet and income statement with prior period comparable numbers and budgets. Additional plan demographics and explanations for significant variances enhance interpretation. An accrual basis balance sheet and income statement, at least annually, may be necessary.
- Healthcare Claims Analysis: Essential for meeting board objectives, claims data analytics and KPI reporting cover, among other areas, provider network assessments, utilization reviews, monitoring high-cost claimants, and assessing wellness program effectiveness.
- Trend Reporting: Understanding and monitoring the healthcare trend rate is vital for projecting short- and long-term funding needs. Benchmarking against industry averages sets expectations and evaluates the success of cost containment initiatives.
- Funding Reports: Monitoring funding monthly ensures the plan has adequate funds to meet current and future benefit obligations. This proactive approach mitigates the risk of unexpected funding fluctuations.
- Performance Guarantee Reporting: Quarterly reviews of performance guarantee reports are essential to monitor vendor performance against contractual standards. Timely identification of substandard performance allows for swift corrective action.
It is essential that board members receive timely, relevant, clear, reliable, and integrated reporting for effective plan management and strategic planning. Periodic evaluations of reporting processes are crucial to ensure they continue to meet the board’s evolving needs, with adjustments made as necessary.
Elevate Your Board Reporting Strategy
Are you maximizing the potential of your board reporting to steer strategic planning and mitigate risks effectively? Take a proactive approach by assessing your current reporting processes. Engage with board members, evaluate the relevance of the information presented, and consider adjustments to ensure your board reporting continues to meet the evolving needs of your health plan management. Strengthen your commitment to excellence in reporting and strategic oversight today.
Author: Adam Meier, CPA | [email protected]
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For more information on this topic, please contact a member of Withum’s Self-Insured Health Plan Advisory Services Team.
