Alguno 90% of employers cite the rising cost of group health insurance plan benefit costs as the number one reason their benefits strategy has changed.
But employee benefits are only one factor influencing hidden health insurance fees.
In fact, group health insurance plan structure and even the insurance provider you opt for could also increase your group plan costs unnecessarily.
What does this mean for Houston companies looking for a group health insurance plan?
It means you need a professional broker in your corner to help you make the best decision for your business.
To help you out, we’ve created a simple guide to help you avoid hidden fees in group health plans, and why you should think about using our services.
Think you might be overpaying?
Get a free group health insurance review
Group Health Insurance in Houston: Cut Benefits Your Employees Don’t Want or Need
Don’t waste money on benefits your employees don’t need or want. Here’s how you do that:
Paso 1. Survey employees to identify underused or low-value benefits (like gym memberships, etc.)
Step 2. Eliminate duplicate benefits that may already be covered by a spouse’s plan etc.
Paso 3. Drop rarely used voluntary benefits that increase premium costs with little employee uptake.
Paso 4. Replace outdated perks with modern, in-demand options like mental health support or flexible spending accounts (FSAs).
Step 5. Focus on benefits that have high utilization and value, like dental and vision.
Step 6. Reallocate savings from unused benefits and apply them toward lower deductibles or broader provider networks.
My small businesses throughout Houston unknowingly waste thousands of dollars each year on group health insurance plans that include benefits their employees don’t value or use. By trimming the fat, you can cut costs without cutting care.
Not sure how to review or adjust your benefits?
Start with our guide to group health insurance for small businesses.
Replace them with the Right Benefits
Hidden fees in your group health insurance plan? Trimming the fat is only half the battle.
To keep employees happy and keep your company competitive, you need to replace low-value perks with benefits your team actually wants and uses.
So, what are those benefits?
According to SHRM, some of those benefits include:
- Teletherapy
- Mental health app use and coverage
- Mental health days
Other popular group health insurance plan benefits include:
- Flexible work arrangements
- Physical wellness initiatives
- Paid time off benefits
- Personalized benefits packages
When you get rid of benefits that your team really don’t want and replace them with benefits that make sense for your crew, you can be successful in creating a plan that doesn’t drain your budget.
Identify and Use the Right Maximum-Out-of-Pocket Requirements
In 2025, the Maximum Out-of-Pocket is $9,200 or $18,400 for a family. So, how do you identify and use the right OOP for your group health insurance plan in Houston?
First, to understand your MOOP is the highest amount your employees could pay in a year for covered in network care. This includes deductibles, copays, and coinsurance—but excludes premiums.
Why does that matter?
Because a low premium plan can still create financial strain if the MOOP is sky high.
Here’s how to think about MOOP when choosing a plan:
- Look beyond the monthly premium.
A lower monthly premium might look attractive, but it usually comes with higher out-of-pocket costs when care is actually needed.
- Balance affordability with protection.
Choose a plan that won’t leave employees vulnerable in the event of a serious illness or hospitalization. A plan with a moderate premium and a reasonable MOOP can offer better overall value.
- Compare options with a broker.
A corredor de seguros de salud grupal can help you compare plans side-by-side—so you can select one that limits your risk for your business and your employees.
If you’re unsure your current plan’s out-of-pocket maximum is competitive, schedule a free consultation to review your options.
Don’t Forget to Compare Insurance Providers
Not all group health insurance premiums are the same. Benefits can vary greatly, as well. That’s why it’s so important to compare not just plan details, but also who’s offering them.
Here’s what to consider when comparing carriers.
Network Access:
Ensure your employees will have access to local hospitals, specialists, and primary care doctors already use. A narrow network may limit options or increase out-of-pocket costs.
Customer Service:
Some carriers are easier to work with than others. Look at reviews, responsiveness, and whether the provider has dedicated support for small businesses.
Claims and Billing Transparency:
A good carrier offers clear billing, quick claims processing, and online tools for employees to understand their benefits.
Work with a Houston Group Health Insurance Broker
Confusion of hidden fees associated with group health insurance is not unusual. There are many variable factors that impact your plan costs. The good news is that if you want help, it’s available.
At Primary Care Insurance Solutions, we can help you out. As your go-to broker, we are happy to give you the guidance to make the best decisions and avoid hidden fees that could cost you big. Here are a few ways we help our group health insurance clients in Houston:
- Walk you through plan options
- Outline what is and isn’t included in your plan
- Customize your group plan to fit you and your employees needs
Ready to Cut Costs without Cutting Quality Benefits?
Hidden fees in group health insurance plans can quietly drain your budget. But they’re avoidable with the right strategy.
Schedule a free consultation with a licensed group health insurance broker today.
ES 
EN