Most of us have been reading about (or using) the AI writing machine, ChatGPT, for the last few months. Ask it almost any question and it will come up with an impressively detailed answer in just a few seconds.
The reaction is usually “WOW!” Or “WOAH!” depending on whether you see the rise of AI as a forerunner to a digital utopia or sci-fi nightmare made real.
But can its oversized digital brain be trusted on the issue of employee benefits? In a move of shameless self interest we decided to ask it about the relative merits of employee benefits brokers.
We asked ChatGPT:
“Should I use an employee benefits broker?”
Here’s what it had to say…
Using an employee benefits broker can be advantageous when purchasing health insurance for your business. Here are some reasons why you might consider working with an employee benefits broker:
Correction: But it’s not just health insurance – a good broker, like Engage, will also advise on Life Insurance, Income Protection, Cash Plans, Employee Assistance Programmes and much more.
1. Expertise and Guidance: Employee benefits brokers specialize in navigating the complexities of insurance and employee benefits. They have in-depth knowledge of the market, industry trends, and various insurance products. Their expertise can help you make informed decisions and find the most suitable health insurance plan for your business.
Yes, but not only health insurance!
2. Access to a Wide Range of Options: Brokers often have access to a broad selection of insurance providers and plans. They can provide you with multiple quotes and options, allowing you to compare coverage, costs, and benefits more effectively. This access can save you time and effort in researching and contacting insurers individually. 3. Tailored Recommendations: Employee benefits brokers take the time to understand your business's specific needs, budget, and employee demographics. With this information, they can provide tailored recommendations that align with your requirements and goals. They can help you find a plan that meets the unique needs of your employees. 4. Cost Efficiency: Brokers can assist in negotiating premiums and terms with insurance providers on your behalf. Their knowledge of the market and relationships with insurers can help you secure competitive pricing and potentially reduce costs. This can be especially beneficial for small and medium-sized businesses with limited bargaining power. 5. Ongoing Support and Service: Employee benefits brokers can provide ongoing support, such as managing enrollment, addressing employee inquiries, and assisting with claims resolution. They act as a point of contact between you, your employees, and the insurance provider, saving you time and administrative effort. 6. Compliance and Legal Assistance: Brokers stay updated on the ever-changing landscape of insurance regulations and can provide guidance to ensure your health insurance plan complies with legal requirements. They can help you navigate complex compliance issues, minimizing the risk of penalties or non-compliance. 7. Cost Transparency: Brokers can help you understand the costs associated with different health insurance plans, including premiums, deductibles, co-pays, and other fees. They can provide insights into the true cost of insurance, allowing you to make well-informed decisions based on your budget and financial considerations. While using an employee benefits broker offers numerous benefits, it's important to choose a reputable and experienced broker with a track record of providing quality services. Do your due diligence by researching and selecting a broker who understands your industry, has a strong reputation, and can meet your specific needs. Ultimately, the decision to use an employee benefits broker depends on the complexity of your business's health insurance needs, your level of comfort in navigating the insurance market, and the resources available to you.
Well, we couldn’t have put it ourselves. Which is reassuring, or scary, depending on how you look at it.
So, does the rise of ChatGPT provide a threat to brokers? You could of course ask infinite questions about different aspects of employee benefits. However, even if it provides the right answer (which isn’t guaranteed), it won’t be able to provide the one-to-one consultation which takes into account the specific needs of your business.
And ChatGPT recognises this itself. When we asked it: “What’s the best businesses health insurance for my UK company?” It concluded it’s lengthy answer with the following:
"To find the best business health insurance for your UK company, consider consulting with insurance brokers or providers who can guide you through the available options and help you customize a plan that suits your organization's needs."
Reassured? We are. For now!
Engage Health Group is a award-winning employee benefits broker providing expert advice and guidance to UK businesses. Call our team on +44 (0)1273 974419 or email [email protected]
