Becker's Healthcare August 28, 2025
As consolidation pressures mount and insurer contracts squeeze independent practices, some physicians are finding an unlikely ally in employer-built health plans.
Carl Schuessler, co-founder and managing principal of Mitigate Partners, joined Becker’s to discuss how these plans could be a lifeline for independent practices, especially in smaller hospitals and rural markets.
Mr. Schuessler draws a stark contrast between traditional insurer-built, “self-funded” plans and employer-built models.
“Insurer-built plans are ‘self-funded’ but still stacked with insurer components that make them money. Employers don’t realize it. It’s like going to Vegas — the house always wins,” he said. “Employer-built plans are different. They’re built for the employer, their employees, their care. Their name goes on the ID card, not Blue Cross....
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