Mount Laurel, NJ – The Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA) today announced the release of its annual Insights That Matter: HVBA DIR Poll Results report, presenting a comprehensive look at the issues shaping the future of health and voluntary benefits in the U.S. workforce. Drawing from more than 24,000 responses across 35+ industry polls, the report highlights the priorities, concerns, and emerging solutions driving the healthcare and benefits landscape in 2025.

Sponsored by MassMutual and Sydney Administrators, the report reflects feedback from brokers, consultants, employers, carriers, and other stakeholders across the benefits ecosystem. It underscores the industry’s collective focus on mental health, price transparency, affordability, and employee engagement as top concerns for the year ahead.

Key Findings Include:

• Mental Health & Engagement: Flexible work schedules and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) were the most preferred initiatives for supporting employee mental health, with ongoing workshops identified as the most effective way to boost engagement.
• Rising Costs & Transparency: Over half of respondents cited rising healthcare costs and affordability as the most pressing challenge, while price transparency tools and reference-based pricing emerged as vital strategies for employers and brokers.
• Voluntary Benefits Growth: Supplemental health products (dental, vision, critical illness) and Accident Insurance remain the most valued voluntary benefits, with Gen X (ages 45–60) showing the highest engagement levels.
• GLP-1 Medications: A majority of respondents strongly disagreed with employers dropping coverage for GLP-1 weight-loss medications (like Mounjaro and Wegovy), citing employee health and retention concerns despite the cost challenges.
• Industry Knowledge Gaps: A majority of professionals reported being unprepared or unaware of compliance requirements tied to the Consolidated Appropriations Act (CAA), signaling a critical need for education and resources.
• Emerging Trends: Interest is growing in pet insurance, “travel as a benefit,” workplace violence coverage, and PTO liability reduction programs as organizations seek innovative ways to attract and retain talent.

“The voice of the benefits community is clear—employers, brokers, and carriers are demanding innovative, affordable, and accessible solutions to meet the needs of today’s workforce,” said Robert S. Shestack, CFF, CVBS, Publisher, Chairman & CEO of HVBA. “This report is a roadmap for the industry, offering actionable insights that reflect both immediate challenges and long-term opportunities.”

The full report, including detailed poll data and commentary, is available now to HVBA members and industry professionals.

For more information or to request the full Insights That Matter: HVBA DIR Poll Results report, visit https://vbassociation.com/discover-what-over-24000-professionals-think-about-2025s-top-benefits-trends/

Media Contact:
Sarah Hunt
Health & Voluntary Benefits Association®
Phone: (856) 200-8024
Email: info@vbassociation.com

About the Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA)
The Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA) and the Health and Voluntary Benefits Institute® (HVBI) are leading providers of comprehensive employee benefits solutions, compliance consulting, product development and industry certifications. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, HVBA & HBVI strives to empower employers and brokers with the tools they need to navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare and voluntary benefits. Through the Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA) and the Health & Voluntary Benefits Institute® (HVBI), we are dedicated to advancing industry knowledge and promoting best practices for the benefit of all stakeholders.

About MassMutual (Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company)
MassMutual is a leading mutual life insurance company that is run for the benefit of its members and participating policyowners. Founded in 1851, the company has been continually guided by one consistent purpose: we help people secure their future and protect the ones they love. With a focus on delivering long-term value, MassMutual offers a wide range of protection, accumulation, wealth management, and retirement products and services. For more information, visit www.massmutual.com.

Nashville, TN – Thursday, July 10 – The Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA) is thrilled to extend a warm invitation to all benefits professionals for the upcoming Benefit Roadshow, scheduled for Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

We are excited to welcome you to the luxurious Renaissance Nashville Hotel, ideally situated in the vibrant heart of downtown Nashville. Directly connected to the dynamic Fifth + Broadway complex—featuring over 35 restaurants, shops, and live entertainment options—our venue offers unmatched convenience and access. Guests will also find themselves just steps away from hundreds of local hotspots, including the legendary Broadway, famously known as “Honky Tonk Highway.”

In addition to an exceptional location, attendees will enjoy exclusive opportunities to engage with the HVBA’s Executive and Advisory Board Members. Connect with influential leaders in the voluntary benefits and healthcare sectors in an intimate, high-energy setting designed to foster meaningful conversations and strategic relationships.

The HVBA Benefit Roadshow promises an engaging and informative experience for attendees. This exclusive event will feature our Innovation Summit with six (6) power sessions, introducing delegates to the latest products, services and solutions in the healthcare and benefits space.

“More than just an event, this is a bold demonstration of HVBA’s relentless drive to push innovation into the marketplace,” said Jake Velie, Vice Chairman & President of the Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA) and Chairman & CEO of National Integrative Health. “Whether it’s revolutionary pharmacy solutions, advanced data analytics, or fresh strategies for managing employer risk, we’re breaking new ground and bringing never-before-seen ideas to the table. At HVBA, we’re not just keeping up—we’re leading the charge with powerful, forward-thinking solutions that tackle the toughest challenge in healthcare: cost control.”

Following these impactful sessions, attendees will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in HVBA’s Networking Reception with Open Bar & Butlered Hors d’oeuvres. 

The HVBA’s Networking Reception at the Benefits Roadshow is more than just an opportunity to mingle—it’s where meaningful connections turn into real business opportunities. Attendees gain direct access to a dynamic mix of professionals, business owners, and community leaders in a relaxed, high-energy environment designed for authentic conversations. Whether you’re looking to forge new partnerships, showcase your services, or simply expand your professional circle, this reception provides the perfect setting. With curated introductions, refreshments, and a collaborative atmosphere, the HVBA Networking Reception transforms casual networking into lasting value. Don’t miss the chance to connect, collaborate, and grow.

“We’re thrilled to bring the HVBA Benefits Roadshow to brokers across the industry — a dynamic event built to empower, educate, and connect,” said Rob Shestack, Chairman & CEO of the HVBA. “This is a unique opportunity for benefits brokers to gain strategic insights, expand their network with top carriers and solution providers, and stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving marketplace.”

In a gesture of appreciation to our attendees, HVBA is pleased to offer complimentary tickets to this event, made possible through the generous support of our sponsors.

To secure your spot at this exciting event and to access further details, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-hvba-benefits-roadshow-nashville-tn-tickets-1388475901799?

For inquiries or additional information, please get in touch with Sarah Hunt, SVP of Administration at shunt@vbassociation.com or call (856) 326-5246.

Take advantage of this opportunity to be part of the HVBA Benefits Roadshow and take your professional network to new heights!

About Health & Voluntary Benefits Association® (HVBA):

HVBA is a leading organization dedicated to providing resources, education, and networking opportunities for professionals in the health and voluntary benefits industry. HVBA aims to foster collaboration, innovation, and excellence in the field through events, workshops, and online platforms.

Media Contact:
Sarah Hunt
SVP of Administration
shunt@vbassociation.com