Increasing Plan Utilization Through Member Engagement

This case study outlines the partnership between an employer in the Southeast and Vālenz Health® aimed at enhancing employee engagement with healthcare resources to achieve cost savings. The employer faced challenges with low utilization of the Valenz Bluebook, prompting a reevaluation of their benefits strategy in 2020. The implemented solution included a shared savings model and a comprehensive communication strategy designed to inform and encourage employees to utilize high-quality, low-cost care options. Key initiatives included the introduction of Engagement Rewards to incentivize members, increased communication through bi-monthly emails, gamification during open enrollment, and targeted notifications for missed rewards. As a result of these efforts, member utilization rose to an average rate of 30.4%, representing a 52% increase over previous averages. The program generated significant savings of $239,000 for the employer and demonstrated a 7:1 return on investment, showcasing the effectiveness of the engagement strategy.