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From the Lab

Put the whole decision on the page.

Worked examples of real benefits questions, using sample data.

Resources · Free Excel workbook

Work through the rating model.

An Excel workbook with sample claims and editable assumptions.

Browse Resources
Explore the sample model

Issue 01 companion

Start with the story behind the 9%.

A companion to Issue 01 for working through a renewal increase.

This is a synthetic illustration built from common plan mechanics. It is not a client case, actuarial opinion, or prediction of any employer’s result.

Read Issue 01

Lab note 01

The total is not the diagnosis.

Start by separating the cost pressures you can explain from the ones you can challenge.

Inherited

Baseline pressure

Which cost pressure was already in the starting point?

Observed

Utilization pattern

Is use changing, or is the unit price doing the work?

Uncertain

Claim volatility

How much of the increase rests on a result that may not repeat?

Negotiable

Contract & loads

Which margin, fee, trend, or term can actually be challenged?

Take it into the room

Five questions I’d bring into the renewal meeting.

  1. Which part of the increase was present before this plan year began?
  2. Which inputs are observed, and which are projected?
  3. What assumption would change the recommendation if it were wrong?
  4. What can still be negotiated, and what only shifts cost?
  5. What evidence would make us stay exactly where we are?

Have a case?

Bring me the decision behind the number.

Keep it general. Do not include PHI, claimant details, identifying information, or confidential employer files.

Submit a case Schedule 30 minutes
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