Dental and vision payers looking to transition from legacy benefit systems to a digital platform have to be very selective, for today and tomorrow. The last thing you want to do is move to a benefits platform that’s not able to flex with your business as it grows. The primary solutions for managing your dental or vision plan on a digital platform are third party benefits administration services (TPA) and software as a service (SaaS). However, SKYGEN keeps your options open with flexible deployment.
SKYGEN’s specialty benefits automation software helps dental and vision payers meet business goals with TPA services, a SaaS offering, and a hybrid solution. In this FAQ, SKYGEN answers your questions about flexible deployment with a specialty benefits administration platform.
What is flexible deployment in dental and vision benefits?
Certain specialty benefit platforms offer flexibility in system deployment to meet both TPA and SaaS needs with dental and vision benefit plans. Though flexible deployment is common in other types of software, it is an innovative offering in specialty benefits.
What are the primary benefits of flexible deployment for payers?
Flexibility. Payers are at different points on their digital transformation journey, and every business is unique. A platform with both TPA and SaaS offerings creates flexibility for payers to deploy the solution that’s right for their business now, and positions them for future growth. This flexibility can deliver real business value when a payer wants to expand into new markets, acquire a competitor, bring operations in-house, or streamline vendor relationships.
It also minimizes risk. Even if payers can’t predict how business will need to evolve in the coming years to meet new market demands and member expectations, they know they’ll be able to stay competitive with deployment flexibility. By selecting a single platform with multiple deployment options, they’ll be able adjust to expected and unexpected external and internal shifts.
Do payers always need flexible deployment in specialty benefits?
No, not always. Some payers are built on a business model that relies on turnkey TPA and technology management. Others have the resources to manage benefits administration and business operations in-house, and simply need a technology partner.
SKYGEN has worked with dental clients that started out needing TPA services, and then transitioned to a SKYGEN SaaS solution. Years later, this client was able to transition one of its business units to TPA after a change in business direction and leadership. SKYGEN has been able to support this client at every step with business growth. The flexibility to move between third party administrator and software as a service solutions gives payers control.
What are the advantages of a SaaS platform in dental and vision benefits?
Choosing a SaaS solution helps payers manage costs while at the same time optimizing efficiency by using technology that’s always being advanced. A SaaS option also enables payers to:
- Scale quickly to respond to increasing member enrollment or changing regulations
- Access sophisticated analytics
- Manage risk with cyberattacks
- Expand into new markets with less effort
Read more about the advantages of SaaS for specialty benefits.
What are the advantages of TPA services for specialty benefits?
With TPA services payers get an end-to-end solution for managing their dental or vision plan. They can select from a comprehensive range of services, and leverage their TPA partner’s staff and expertise to fine-tune every aspect of their plan. A TPA solution also:
- May be faster to get up and running than a SaaS solution
- Takes the weight off your internal team
- Does not require in-house benefits management expertise
Read more about the advantages of TPA services for specialty benefits.
Does the transition cause a lot of disruption with data exchange?
It doesn’t have to. A specialty benefits platform that offers system deployment flexibility will utilize a combination of robust APIs and custom integrations that allows the platform and data to integrate seamlessly with payer systems. It requires more than a flip of a switch, but nothing like the arduous and time-consuming effort that was required in the past to support data flow in and out of legacy systems.
Where should payers start if they are unsure if a TPA or SaaS solution is a fit for their business?
These are some of the most important points to keep in mind as you start your search:
- Narrow your list to platforms specifically designed for dental and vision, built by technology companies experienced with specialty benefits. This focus can reduce risk and speed up time to ROI.
- Look for a track record with flexible deployment. Again, with the complexity of the healthcare environment and frequent changes in regulation, ROI comes with proven solutions. Don’t let your company be the beta test.
- Seek a partner, not a vendor. A partner can work with you to design and implement the optimal combination of standard and custom technology to realize your business vision. They’ll also be there for you to help with a smooth transition, troubleshooting, and continually ensuring your solution is delivering maximum value.
Like to learn more about transforming specialty benefits with TPA and SaaS solutions?
Watch this brief video or get in touch with SKYGEN’s specialty benefits experts today.
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