In late 2014, Delta Dental of Colorado commissioned a statewide survey of Colorado small business owners and employee benefits decision-makers to understand the impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on their businesses and employee benefits strategies.
Here were some key findings from the study:
Colorado’s smallest businesses are considering changing health plans. Half of Colorado businesses with 5 to 49 employees are considering new health plans; compared to 21% with 50 to 100 employees
Small businesses are feeling the impact of the ACA. 1 in 4 say ACA has impacted employee benefits “a great deal.” Additionally, small business owners report “increased cost” as the top impact.
Significant knowledge gaps still exist. Only 41% feel knowledgeable about the ACA and its impact on employee benefits.
Despite the changes, small businesses say benefits are becoming MORE IMPORTANT in the future. 86% of small businesses consider employee benefits to be “very” or “extremely” important, while 62% of small businesses say benefits will become more important over the next 3 to 5 years.
View the study in its entirety.
Also, what about listing news coverage the study has received? They are listed on the website.