Man bites dog

IBM has introduced another innovative healthcare approach. Beginning in 2010, the company will pay 100% of its employes primary care costs. Previously the company had introduced a wellness program, with incentives. IBM estimates its $79 million expenditure for that program saved the company and the employees a combined $191 million in healthcare costs. When you have 115,000 employees in the United States you have a pretty good statistical sample for savings. It is unclear whether this approach would affect savings for small employers.