Pulse Check: 4 Simple Ways to Boost Your Heart Health | VA Benefits Team

February is often filled with symbols of love, but it’s also the perfect time to focus on the most important heart of all—your own. American Heart Month serves as a vital reminder that cardiovascular health is the foundation of a long, vibrant life. Heart disease remains a leading health challenge globally, but the good news … Continued

How to Improve Your Health Care Literacy | Virginia Employee Benefits Agents

Improving your health care literacy is one of the most empowering steps you can take toward better health. Health care literacy refers to your ability to understand, access, and use health information to make informed decisions about your care. From interpreting medical terms and navigating insurance plans to asking the right questions during appointments, strong … Continued

Educating Employees on Increasing Healthcare Costs | Virginia Benefits Consultants

Health care costs in the United States continue to rise, increasing pressure on both employers and employees. Organizations that provide health benefits must balance growing expenses with transparency and trust from their workforce. Clear, compassionate communication is key to helping employees understand and navigate these rising costs. Consider these strategies: Craft messaging that is clear, … Continued

Employee Benefit Trends for 2026 | VA Benefits Agency

In our increasingly busy world, employee expectations are accelerating faster than ever before. A five-year-old benefits strategy simply cannot meet the complex, constant pressures workers face in 2026—be it financial stress, burnout, or caregiving responsibilities. The modern workforce is rejecting generic menus in favor of flexibility, strong financial support, and wellness options that align with … Continued

IRS Increases PCORI Fee Rate | Virginia Benefits Group

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has issued Notice 2025-61, announcing a significant increase to the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) fee amount. Employers with self-insured health plans and health insurance issuers must take note of the new rate and upcoming compliance deadlines. What is the New PCORI Fee Amount? The PCORI fee is increasing to … Continued

Compliance Recap November 2025 | VA Benefits Team

How Much Will Health Care Costs Rise in 2026? Health care costs have been growing at an alarming rate in recent years, and they’re not slowing down. As such, surveys project that health care costs in the United States are likely to increase by 6.5% to, in many cases, as much as over 10% in … Continued

Compliance Alert: HIPAA Privacy Notice Update Due Feb. 16, 2026 | VA Employee Benefits Advisors

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued a final rule that requires covered entities—including many health plans—to update their Notice of Privacy Practices (Privacy Notice). This change enhances privacy protections for highly sensitive Substance Use Disorder (SUD) treatment records. Why the Update is Necessary The HIPAA Privacy Rule already mandates that … Continued

Healthy Through The Holidays: Your Winter Wellness Guide | Virginia Benefits Consultants

The transition into winter and the busy holiday season often brings two things: cold weather and packed calendars. While the shorter days and festive cheer are welcome, they also present unique challenges to our health, including managing stress, fighting off seasonal illnesses, and maintaining an active routine. Staying healthy this winter isn’t about grand gestures; … Continued