ContentDesk) February 25, 2004–Free Savings Calculator determines ROI for Supplemental Insurance. In recognition of the problem of rising employee health insurance costs, 1st Supplemental Health Insurance has posted a calculator for HR managers to do their homework before presenting to management. The calculator is free and can be downloaded from the link (www.1st-supplemental-health-insurance.com/finance.htm).Rising health insurance rates have forced employers to increase co-pays and deductibles to reign in the skyrocketing employer paid costs.

Many employers recognize the problem and are evaluating options to offer employee-paid programs which increase the benefits offered by the employer but are paid for by the employee via payroll deduction. In many cases these programs can be implemented on a pre-tax basis and can actually save the employer tax money. 1st Supplemental Health Insurance also has an informative page entitled “How to Select a Voluntary Carrier”.

Health-care premiums rose 13.9 percent this year, driven by a jump in prescription drug costs, costly new medical technology and insurers’ profit gains, a study by the nonprofit Kaiser Family Foundation found. That is the sharpest spike since 1990. Analysts predict more to come. Chris Curie, the General Partner at 1st Supplemental Health Insurance said: “We are happy to provide a free resource to provide information and options regarding alternatives for employee programs.