In 2014, demand for gym and exercise machines surpassed golf equipment as the largest segment in the US market for sports equipment, supported by the rising number of health clubs in the US. The segment is expected to account for the largest share of value gains in the overall market through 2021, driven by improvements to the technology and convenience of such equipment.
December 18, 2017Self-funded plans represent one alternative to conventional risk-based insurance. In addition, healthcare providers (eg, hospital systems) are offering another option, provider-owned plans.
September 18, 2017The slowdown in healthcare cost inflation, often attributed to the 2007-2009 recession, has generated questions such as what caused it and whether it will last. Notably, as Figure 1 shows, the rate of healthcare inflation has dropped to historically low levels, suggesting structural factors could also be a major driver of the slowdown.
July 18, 2017