Why Employee Health Benefits Are Essential for Small Businesses

Posted February 04, 2025 by Steve Chrzanowski, Director, Group Retention & Sales Support

In today’s competitive business environment, attracting and retaining top-tier talent is critical to the success of your small business. A strong bottom line starts with a healthy workforce. That's why offering a comprehensive benefits package and including quality health insurance isn't just a perk—it's a necessity.

Providing health benefits shows employees that you value their physical and mental well-being, leading to a happier, more productive workforce. However, navigating healthcare options as a small business owner can be overwhelming. Many believe they can’t compete with larger companies when it comes to offering robust benefits, but that’s where SummaCare can help. We have partnered with the Greater Akron Chamber to offer northeast Ohio small businesses the Chamber Health Benefits Plan, a multiple employer welfare arrangement (MEWA).

This self-funded health benefits option enables employers with 50 or fewer employees to join forces and share the healthcare costs of their staff. Employers can access potential savings by participating in a larger self-funded pool.

The Importance of Employee Health Benefits

Offering health insurance does more than just cover medical expenses—it creates a supportive workplace culture and even provides potential tax advantages for your business. Here’s how offering health benefits can set your business apart:

1. Helps Attract Top Talent

In a competitive job market, a strong benefits package can give small businesses an edge in attracting skilled employees who might otherwise be drawn to larger companies. Offering quality health insurance and ancillary benefits makes your business more appealing to top candidates.

2. Boosts Employee Morale and Loyalty

Comprehensive health benefits demonstrate your commitment to employees’ well-being. When employees feel valued and supported, they are more engaged, motivated and productive.

3. Improves Employee Health and Productivity

Access to affordable healthcare helps employees stay physically and mentally healthy. A healthier workforce means fewer sick days, higher efficiency and better overall performance.

4. Reduces Employee Turnover

High turnover rates can be costly for your company. Offering comprehensive health benefits helps retain employees, fostering long-term business stability and growth.

How The Chamber Health Benefits Plan Helps Small Businesses

A MEWA health plan allows multiple small businesses to pool resources, gaining access to lower health insurance rates and better coverage options than they could secure individually. Here’s why joining SummaCare’s Chamber Health Benefits plan is a smart move:

• Cost Savings – Shared resources can mean lower premiums and affordable healthcare options for small businesses.
• Variety of Plans and Networks – Employers can select the best option for their employees from 14 benefit plans, including PPO- and HSA-compatible options with pharmacy coverage. These plans feature three SummaCare networks—SCPremier, SCSelect plus the Preferred Choice Network that offers the high-quality, cost-competitive network of Summa Health, Cleveland Clinic (including Cleveland Clinic Akron General) and Akron Children's Hospital.
• Added Benefits – Health and wellness benefits, value-added services, plus programs and discounts are included at no additional cost to you or your employees. 
• Ancillary Options – Dental, Vision and Life options are available. For convenience, medical and ancillary premiums are billed together.

Ready to Learn More?

Are you a small business owner in northeast Ohio? If you’re looking for a trusted partner to help navigate healthcare benefits, discover the SummaCare difference. Connect with your broker, call SummaCare at 330.996.8955 or visit the SummaCare Chamber Health Benefits Plan to explore how we can support your business.