How SmartShopper® Helps Small Businesses Get More for their Health Plan
October 12, 2026 | Tags:
For small business owners, healthcare coverage is often one of their largest investments in employees. Premiums and network access are important, but the tools included with a group health plan also can make a meaningful difference. A benefit such as SmartShopper® gives employees access to cost-comparison tools that can help them make informed healthcare decisions and potentially reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Why this matters to small business owners
Small businesses are continually balancing a desire for quality benefits with budget considerations. SmartShopper can improve the overall benefits experience by providing value beyond traditional coverage.
When your business demonstrates a commitment to helping employees manage healthcare expenses, employees may feel more supported and valued. This support can contribute to employee engagement and retention.
Tools that help lower healthcare costs
SmartShopper makes the comparison process easier by allowing members to compare costs for eligible healthcare services before they schedule and receive care. Members can use SmartShopper to:
- Search for services by category, including inpatient, outpatient, diagnostic and radiology.
- Search for a specific procedure.
- Find nearby in-network providers and compare estimated costs.
Employees can evaluate their options before making an appointment and may receive a reward for choosing an eligible lower-cost location. For example, if a physician orders a CT scan, a member can use SmartShopper to review nearby in-network facilities, estimated costs and potential rewards for eligible services.
Members that qualify for rewards will receive a check or alternative form of payment that can be used how they wish or will be deposited into a tax-advantaged spending account, like a Health Savings Account (HSA).
Healthcare prices can vary
The cost of a healthcare service can vary among providers and facilities, even when the procedure itself is the same. Without access to pricing information, employees may not realize they have lower-cost options available within their network.
When healthcare costs are more transparent, employees can compare options before scheduling services. This allows employees to consider convenience and value and potentially reduce their out-of-pocket costs.
Maximize your health benefits with SmartShopper
Choosing a health plan with tools like SmartShopper can help employees navigate healthcare decisions with confidence. To learn more, contact your broker, or request a sales consultation.
Request a Sales Consult
You can also visit our small group health plans page to learn more about our offerings.
This content was created with assistance from generative AI.