Why health care spending keeps climbing

You’re reading the web version of Health Care Inc., STAT’s weekly newsletter following the flow of money in medicine. Sign up to get it in your inbox every Monday.

Putting your money where your mouth is

The text "CalPERS" and "California Public Employees’ Retirement System" engraved on a stone sign in front of an L-shaped glass building — business coverage from STAT
The California Public Employees’ Retirement System building in Sacramento, California. Max Whittaker/Getty Images

Large companies rarely switch health insurance vendors. It’s a pain in the butt for everyone involved, even if the current setup is a raw deal.

advertisement

That’s why whenever a big employer makes a change, and acknowledges it publicly, I take notice. That happened last week when the California Public Employees’ Retirement System, or CalPERS, announced plans to ditch Elevance Health for its PPO plans and move to Blue Shield of California and Included Health.

STAT+ Exclusive Story

STAT+

This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers

Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and networking platform access.

Already have an account? Log in

Already have an account? Log in

View All Plans

Get unlimited access to award-winning journalism and exclusive events.

Subscribe