Allison De Paoli
Redefining Health Benefits: Allison's Passion-Driven Journey
In the evolving world of healthcare, where costs are skyrocketing, regulations are multiplying, and the system feels more confusing day by day, there are people who refuse to accept the status quo. Allison De Paoli from Altiqe is one of them. Her story isn't just about navigating the complexities of employee benefits; it's about a lifelong mission to make healthcare better for everyone.
A Legacy of Employee Benefits
Allison's journey began in South Florida, where her parents ran a boutique employee benefits consulting firm. Back in the late 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, they specialized in self-funded plans, helping employers design healthcare solutions tailored to their unique needs.
Growing up in this environment, Allison got a front-row seat to the inner workings of the healthcare system. She saw how self-funded plans offered flexibility and control, allowing employers to create benefits that truly served their employees.
The Changing Face of Healthcare
Allison recalls a time when self-funded plans were simple and easy to understand. Employers had more freedom to create plans that suited their employees, and costs were easier to manage. But as time went on, the system got more complicated.
"It felt like there were more hands in the pot than ever before," Allison explains. "The system was becoming harder to navigate, and employers were struggling to keep up." High-cost specialty drugs came into the market, regulations increased, and more middlemen got involved, each taking a cut and pushing costs higher.
A Mission to Fix the System
Frustrated by the problems she saw, Allison decided to take action. She knew the best way to fix the system was by working directly with employers. By helping them understand their options and use smarter strategies, she believed she could make a real impact.
One of the first steps she focused on was controlling costs. For self-funded employers, this meant being proactive: auditing claims, using a fiduciary PBM, implementing targeted solutions for specific health issues, and directing employees to appropriate care.
The Challenges of Small Employers
While larger employers have the resources to implement various strategies, smaller employers face different challenges. Allison notes that the average small employer might have just 19 employees, making it hard to achieve the same cost savings that larger groups enjoy.
"For smaller employers, every dollar counts," she says. "They can't afford to experiment with expensive technology or complex solutions. They need practical, cost-effective strategies that provide real value."
A Vision for the Future
Her story is about passion, perseverance, and purpose. She's not just navigating the healthcare system; she's working to make it better. Her journey shows us that even in complex and often frustrating times, there are chances to make a difference.
As the healthcare landscape continues to change, Allison stays committed to her mission. She believes that by giving employers the knowledge and tools they need, we can create a system that works for everyone, not just a select few.